Over 300 Kenyan nurses to attend annual KNAA conference in the US

The three-day conference, scheduled for September 17–19 in Towson, Maryland, will bring together Kenyan nurses and other healthcare professionals from across the United States for professional development, leadership engagement and networking.

KNAA President Jelia Akombe said the high turnout reflects growing participation among Kenyan nurses in the diaspora.

“We are thrilled by the number of nurses already registered. This is a powerful show of unity and professional pride,” said Akombe.

The conference will provide up to 20 Continuing Education Units (CEUs), with sessions covering mental health, HIV treatment innovations, nurse entrepreneurship, cardiovascular and oral health, hormonal balance, suicide prevention and patient data privacy.

Mental health is expected to feature prominently during the conference, with KNAA saying it is seeking to strengthen support for the welfare of its members.

KNAA Public Relations Officer Ankie Miriam said the association is keen to promote mental health programmes alongside professional development and collective support among Kenyan nurses in the United States.

“Through service and collaboration, KNAA remains committed to empowering nurses while fostering a strong and supportive professional community and mental health support,” she said.

The conference has also attracted participation from Kenyan government and institutional officials, including Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua, Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roselyne Njogu, Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni and Kenya’s Director of Nursing Services Judith Awinja Aluora.

Daystar University Vice Chancellor Laban Ayiro is also among the invited guests.

A surprise speaker is expected to deliver the keynote address during the opening night.

The organisers said the participation of Kenyan officials and healthcare leaders reflects the growing engagement between Kenyan professionals in the diaspora and institutions in the country.

The 2026 conference follows last year’s KNAA gathering in Dallas, Texas, which attracted more than 200 nurses.

The association describes its annual national nursing conference as its flagship event, providing a platform for mentorship, continuing education, leadership development, advocacy and professional networking among Kenyan nurses in the United States.

The conference will conclude with a black-tie gala on Saturday evening.