Nairobi, July 7- The Kenya Medical Association (KMA) has raised the alarm over growing disruptions to healthcare access during national protests, warning that blocked roads and harassment of medical workers are endangering lives.
In a statement released Monday, KMA Secretary General Dr. Diana Marion expressed concern over incidents reported during both the June 25 Gen Z demonstrations and the Saba Saba commemorations, where ambulances and medical staff were delayed, blocked, or intimidated.
“Road blockades are not just traffic inconveniences they’re creating a healthcare emergency,” said Dr. Marion. “Lives are being lost because access to urgent care is being delayed or denied.”
KMA highlighted multiple cases where ambulances transporting injured civilians and protesters were unable to reach hospitals due to barricades or interference from both protesters and security personnel.
The association reminded all parties that the right to health is enshrined in Article 43(1)(a) of the Constitution and that Kenya is bound by international humanitarian law—including the Geneva Conventions to uphold medical neutrality during unrest.
KMA called on the National Police Service to issue clear directives ensuring ambulances and medical personnel are not obstructed. It also urged the Interior and Health ministries to establish guidelines for safeguarding emergency health services during civil action.
Protesters were also urged to respect medical workers and avoid using healthcare facilities as shields or blockading routes critical for emergency response.
“Healthcare must remain off-limits in any conflict delays and denials are costing lives,” the association warned.
