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{
    "id": 1517180,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1517180/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 100,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Sen. Olekina",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": {
        "id": 407,
        "legal_name": "Ledama Olekina",
        "slug": "ledama-olekina"
    },
    "content": "Thank you, Mr. Temporary Speaker, Sir. I will read the Statements on behalf of Sen. Hamida Kibwana. I rise pursuant to Standing Order 53 (1) to seek a Statement from the Standing Committee on Health regarding the tragic death by suicide of Francis Njuki, a medical intern at Thika Level 5 Hospital on November, 2024. This incident came just two months after the death of Dr. Desree Moraa, who until her death by suicide was a medical intern at Gatundu Level 5 Hospital in Kiambu County. This highlights the urgent need to address rising mental health concerns and toxic work conditions faced by medical interns in Kenya. The death of these young medical professionals are not only individual tragedies, but also a stark reminder of systemic issues within our health care system. It is imperative that the Senate take swift action to ensure the safety, well-being and dignity of all those who dedicate their lives to serving our nation's health. In the Statement, the Committee should- (1) Investigate the working conditions and schedules of medical interns at public hospitals, specifically addressing claims of excessive working hours and poor working environment. (2) Examine the existing mental health support programmes available for medical professions, particularly interns and recommend enhancement of these programmes to prevent such tragic outcomes. (3) Assess the role of hospital administrations and the Ministry of Health in safeguarding the welfare of medical interns, including measures taken to address their grievances and provide mentorship. (4) Provide a detailed report on policies governing the development, deployment, supervision and work-life balance of medical interns and propose reforms where necessary. (5) Recommend actionable steps to create a safe and supportive working environment for all medical professionals with a particular focus on addressing mental health challenges within the sector. The Statement is signed by Sen. Hamida Kibwana who is a Nominated Senator."
}