Marsabit Senator Chute raises concerns over healthcare challenges

By Nyabande Orwa

Marsabit Senator Mohammed Chute has criticized the government over what he described as a failure to address challenges facing the health sector, blaming the situation on a lack of accountability.

Speaking during a Senate session, Chute said healthcare workers continue to face numerous challenges, including delayed salaries, a severe shortage of medical personnel, and poor working conditions.

The senator noted that the number of patients seeking medical services has continued to increase while the number of doctors and other healthcare workers remains low, a situation he said is affecting the delivery of quality healthcare services.

Chute further revealed that hospitals across Marsabit County are experiencing a shortage of nurses, while many health facilities lack adequate medical equipment.

He also expressed concern over the absence of a proper promotion system for healthcare workers, saying the situation has demoralized many employees. According to the senator, some healthcare workers in Marsabit County have served for more than ten years without receiving promotions.

The senator also highlighted a shortage of ambulances in Dukana, Loiyangalani, Marsabit, Moyale, and Kalacha. He said some ambulances have been taken to garages in Meru, Nanyuki, and Nairobi for repairs, leading to delays in emergency services and putting patients’ lives at risk.

His remarks come as the nationwide nurses’ strike enters its sixth week.

Chute called on the government to recognize the challenges facing healthcare workers and take urgent measures to improve their working conditions. He stressed the need for immediate action to ensure residents receive quality healthcare services on time and to address the challenges affecting the health sector.