According to the 2025 World Nursing Report, in many public hospitals across Kenya, a single nurse serves between 30 and 40 patients in one shift. This falls significantly below the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) recommended nurse-to-patient ratio. In Kenya’s rural clinics and dispensaries, nurses often run the entire operation, prescribing, managing emergencies, and handling deliveries. Yet many lack career growth opportunities and fair remuneration. Christabel Wesonga, Nurse Director at Aga Khan University Hospital (AKH), leans over a newborn—checking vitals, gently cleaning delicate skin, and recording every detail. The infant is just days old, yet the care she receives reflects years of clinical experience, systemic gaps, and relentless dedication. “We are there 24 hours. You can’t disconnect emotionally, especially when a baby you’ve nurtured for a year finally takes their first step. It’s these small wins that keep us going,” she says.