THE NAIROBI HOSPITAL BOARD VOWS TO UPHOLD SERVICE DELIVERY AMID LEADERSHIP SHAKE-UP.
BY HANNAH KARANJA
The Nairobi Hospital Board has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining uninterrupted healthcare services and strengthening leadership, even as the institution navigates a period of internal turbulence and external scrutiny.
In a press conference held at the hospital’s amphitheatre, newly appointed Board Chair Barcley Onyambu reassured the public of the hospital’s unwavering dedication to quality care, despite recent media reports highlighting leadership challenges and integrity concerns.
“Leadership confidence is vital to any institution, particularly one central to the health of the community such as The Nairobi Hospital,” Onyambu said. “The recent reports on integrity and leadership are isolated and do not detract from our focus.”
Acting CEO Felix Osano echoed the Chair’s sentiments, stressing that The Nairobi Hospital remains a trusted pillar in Kenya’s healthcare system. “Our commitment to excellence remains steadfast. We are taking decisive steps to address challenges and ensure that The Nairobi Hospital remains a beacon of trust and quality healthcare in Kenya,” he stated.
The Board has recently undergone restructuring, with new members appointed to enhance governance and inject fresh perspectives into the institution’s strategic direction. Onyambu expressed confidence that these changes would help accelerate the hospital’s drive toward operational and institutional excellence.
The press conference also addressed ongoing investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), which began with a raid on the hospital and raised concerns over patient confidentiality. While the High Court has since issued orders halting the probe and granted anticipatory bail to Board members, the hospital confirmed its full cooperation with authorities while prioritizing data privacy and institutional integrity.
Amid the investigations, the hospital has also faced internal disputes, including conflicts over doctor suspensions and broader governance issues. These developments have fueled public calls for transparency and more robust leadership structures.
Despite these challenges, the Board expressed optimism about the hospital’s future and affirmed that core operations remain stable. “We recognise that we will be judged by how well we lead the hospital beyond this period,” Onyambu said. “Our dedicated staff continues to deliver uninterrupted and quality service to the public.”
The Board concluded by thanking stakeholders, partners, and staff for their unwavering support. “Kenyans' faith in this institution has not gone unnoticed,” the Chair said. “As we navigate this chapter, we pledge to fully repay your trust in us and continue serving you in the best way possible.”
