Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o has urged the Kenya Kwanza administration to reconsider its recent decision to withdraw the services of Cuban doctors.
Nyong'o is concerned that the abrupt removal of the medical professionals could potentially trigger a severe health crisis in the country. He emphasized that the government should have consulted with the county authorities since health services are a devolved function.
In his statement, Nyong'o, who has previously served as the Minister of Medical Services and now governs Kisumu County, expressed his opposition to the withdrawal of Cuban doctors from Kenyan health facilities.
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He said the decision is irrational and might have grave consequences for the nation's healthcare.
"A few days ago, the Kenya Kwanza government announced the withdrawal of the services of the Cuban doctors from our health facilities. As former Minister of Medical Services and now governor of Kisumu County, I want to make it very clear to the Kenyan Government and the people of Kenya that the sudden withdrawal of Cuban doctors from our medical services is an irrational decision bound to plunge the whole nation into a terrible health crisis," Nyong'o said.
"Health is a devolved function. Counties provide such services as health where the rubber touches the ground. It would have been both constitutionally correct and sensible to consult with County governments before such a decision is made," he added.
Press Release !@MOH_Kenya @WilliamsRuto @StateHouseKenya pic.twitter.com/ojrVZzz9US— Gov. Anyang' Nyong'o (@AnyangNyongo) October 17, 2023
Nyong'o said the National Government should have identified Kenyan doctors to fill the roles before making the decision.
He emphasized the importance of consulting county governments before such a significant decision is made, given their pivotal role in delivering healthcare services to the grassroots.
Nyong'o on contribution of Cuban doctors
Nyong'o stressed the essential contributions made by Cuban doctors, such as oncologists, dermatologists, and cardiologists, in hospitals like Jaramogi Oginga Teaching and Referral Hospital saying their withdrawal without adequate replacements could jeopardize the care of patients, particularly those with serious health conditions like cancer.
"At the Jaramogi Oginga Teaching and Referral Hospital, we have three Cuban doctors; an oncologist, a dermatologist and a cardiologist. Where are we going to find replacements for these doctors? What will happen to our people with cancer cases, for example, when the Cuban doctors leave without their replacements? The rational and wise decision that should have been made was first and foremost to identify Kenyan doctors who can replace the Cubans before they are withdrawn," he said.
"I know that people in government who make these decisions can afford to be treated abroad. Ordinary Kenyans unfortunately cannot. May I plead with the Kenya Kwanza government to rescind this decision immediately. Discuss with the Council of Governors what needs to be done," Nyong'o said.
