KNH CEO Dr.Richard Lesiyampe Challenges Occupational Therapist To Lead Rehabilitation Revolution

By Evans Mutinda

Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) will introduce specialised training programmes in sensory integration, hand therapy and driver rehabilitation from January 2027, Chief Executive Officer Dr. Richard Lesiyampe has announced.

Speaking during World Occupational Therapy Day celebrations at Kenyatta National Hospital ground, Dr. Lesiyampe said the programmes would equip practitioners with advanced skills and strengthen rehabilitation services across the country.
“Effective January next year, these programmes will be running at KNH, and some of you will become lecturers and impart this knowledge,” he said.
The planned programmes will target specialised areas of occupational therapy, with driver rehabilitation expected to address the needs of motorists, including matatu and boda boda operators.

Dr. Lesiyampe urged occupational therapists to upgrade their academic qualifications, challenging diploma holders to pursue degrees and graduates to obtain master’s qualifications within the next three to five years. He also encouraged master’s degree holders to pursue PhDs.

He said the profession needed to advance through specialisation and professional development to match standards in other healthcare disciplines locally and internationally.
Dr. Lesiyampe described occupational therapists as central to patient recovery, mental health support and rehabilitation, saying their work helps patients regain independence, return to employment and reconnect with their families.

He called for closer collaboration between KNH, the Ministry of Health, the Occupational Therapy Council and training institutions to expand expertise and improve service delivery.

The CEO also urged practitioners to embrace emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, robotics and assistive devices, while exploring opportunities in home-based care.
He said KNH was working to renovate its physiotherapy facilities with support from an unnamed philanthropist. The hospital also plans to develop sports medicine as an academic programme and a specialised discipline to support Kenyan athletes.

Dr. Lesiyampe, who said he previously served as KNH chief executive from 2011 to 2013, praised the hospital’s workforce and its contribution to training healthcare professionals.
He urged occupational therapists to prioritise patient welfare and measure their success through improved recovery and quality of life.
He said strengthening rehabilitation services would benefit patients and their families while helping restore productivity and support Kenya’s economy.