This archive report was first published on 5 June 2020.
Kenya's healthcare system is facing a new challenge as the number of Covid-19 cases continues to rise, with at least 80 medics testing positive for the disease.
According to sources, the government has slowed down testing among healthcare workers, leaving many without access to regular screenings.
"The process started with the nurses at Kenyatta National Hospital and stopped there, we have been struggling to have our people tested," said George Gibore, secretary-general of the Kenya Union of Clinical Officers.
He added that healthcare workers should be screened for Covid-19 every week to protect patients from asymptomatic infection.
However, the government has denied claims that they are not testing healthcare workers, saying that they test after every two weeks.
"These are very special people. They are normally tested after every two weeks just to ensure they do not infect themselves and their clients as well," said Dr Rashid Aman, the chief administrative secretary of the Ministry of Health.
The Ministry of Health has prioritized testing of truck drivers and those in quarantine centers, citing a shortage of testing materials.
Kenya relies majorly on test kits donated by the Jack Ma Foundation, sourced via partners including the WHO and procured via a newly created platform that pools African countries' together.
As the country struggles to contain the spread of the virus, healthcare workers are calling for regular testing to ensure their safety and the safety of their patients.
