Nairobi: Health professionals in Kenya have been called to embrace compassion and selflessness in their service, following an appeal by Archbishop Phillip Anyolo during a Eucharistic celebration ahead of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi.
Speaking at St. Francis Community Hospital in Kasarani, Nairobi, Archbishop Anyolo urged medical practitioners to emulate St. Francis of Assisi by “being good and doing good.” He emphasized that patients often remember the kindness and dedication of their caregivers alongside the healing they receive, and called on doctors and nurses not to give up in difficult cases but to seek referrals and alternative treatment options.
“Those who care for the sick leave a lasting impression on their lives,” the Archbishop said, encouraging health workers to combine professional competence with joy, empathy, and faith in their service.
The celebration came as St. Francis Community Hospital continues to grow its capacity. The facility, already accredited as a Level Five hospital by the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council, is preparing to launch a new medical training college to address the country’s rising demand for skilled health professionals. The hospital has also expanded specialized services, including oncology and dialysis care, making it a key hub for advanced treatment in Nairobi.
The call for compassion comes at a time when Kenya’s healthcare system faces persistent challenges, including delayed reimbursements to hospitals under the National Health Insurance Fund, staffing shortages, and recurrent disputes between medical unions and county governments. While moral appeals provide inspiration, observers note that structural reforms in financing and policy remain crucial to strengthening the sector.
Faith-based hospitals like St. Francis continue to play a vital role in filling service gaps, particularly in underserved areas. The Archbishop’s message highlighted not only the spiritual dimension of healthcare but also the importance of resilience and professionalism in the country’s ongoing health reforms.