How Nairobi Hospice is Redefining Palliative Care

In Kenya, an estimated 800,000 people require palliative care, yet fewer than 30,000 can access it consistently. This gap leaves many patients living with unmanaged pain and limited support, often at the most vulnerable stages of life. For over three decades, Nairobi Hospice has worked to change this reality by providing care that focuses not only on illness, but on dignity, comfort and quality of life.

At its core, Nairobi Hospice serves adults and children living with life-limiting conditions including cancer, HIV and AIDS, stroke, chronic kidney disease, congenital conditions, dementia and arthritis. Its model of care is deliberately holistic, addressing physical, emotional, spiritual and social needs through outpatient services, home-based care, hospital support, community outreach and training.

Dr. Sara Agak – CEO, Nairobi Hospice

“For over 35 years, Nairobi Hospice has helped shape the palliative care movement in Kenya. Our mission remains clear in ensuring that no patient suffers in silence, and that every life is lived with dignity and meaningful support,” says Dr. Sara Agak, CEO of Nairobi Hospice.

This approach reflects a broader philosophy that has guided the organisation’s central role in shaping palliative care with a continued focus on reaching underserved communities through advocacy, training and expanded access.

Closing the Gap in Palliative Care

The need for palliative care in Kenya continues to grow, driven in part by the rise in non-communicable diseases. Despite this, awareness remains low, and there is a shortage of trained professionals and caregiver support systems.

To address this, Nairobi Hospice has invested heavily in training and partnerships. One of its longest-standing collaborations is with Oxford Brookes University in the United Kingdom, through which it offers a Higher Diploma in Palliative Care. The programme, now marking 25 years, has contributed significantly to building capacity across Kenya and the region.

Agak is clear about what is at stake. “When we strengthen capacity, we do not just train professionals, but transform lives.”

She is equally direct in addressing a common misunderstanding.

“A common misconception is that palliative care means giving up. Far from it. Palliative care focuses on improving quality of life, supporting both the patient and their family to live with dignity, hope, compassion and meaningful care at every stage of illness.”

This belief is captured in the organisation’s guiding principle: putting life into their days, not just days into their lives.

Beyond clinical care…

Nairobi Hospice places strong emphasis on creating spaces where patients and families can connect, reflect and find moments of relief. One such initiative is Thanksgiving Thursday, a bi-weekly gathering that brings together patients, caregivers, staff, partners and volunteers.

The event combines shared meals, music, prayer and storytelling, offering what she describes as “moments of joy in the middle of difficult journeys.” For many, it has become an essential part of the support system around palliative care.

“It is a space where we take a deliberate pause, gather, reflect, give thanks and remind our patients and their families that they are deeply seen and valued,” Agak explains.

Their most recent gathering on Thursday, 26th March 2026 stood out for its sense of unity, particularly with the involvement of cyclists serving as brand ambassadors.

“What always stand out for me is the extraordinary courage of our patients. They carry so much, yet they continue to show up with strength, with grace, and with a determination that reminds us all what it truly means to live.”

A Moving Campaign for Awareness

It is the same spirit of compassion that carried into the Nairobi Hospice Easter Ride, held from 27th to 29th March 2026 spanning the route from Nairobi to Kisumu. The initiative was designed to raise both funds and awareness for palliative care.

Agak explains that the Easter-centred initiative brought together endurance, advocacy and community engagement, with riders taking on a physically demanding journey with a shared sense of purpose, representing patients and caregivers.

Funds raised through the initiative are directed towards patient-centred services, including home-based care, medication, transport, caregiver support and wellness activities.

Building a Culture of Compassion

Nairobi Hospice’s work is sustained through a network of partners, donors, volunteers and institutions. Its approach is to create multiple entry points for support, recognising that contributions can take different forms.

From training programmes and awareness campaigns to community events such as the Annual Charity Walk, Voices for Hospice Concert and the upcoming Nairobi Compassion Campaign, the organisation is focused on building a broader culture of shared responsibility.

“Palliative care is everybody’s business,” Agak states. “It takes partners, champions and organisations willing to align their brand with compassion, dignity and humanity.”

Looking ahead, the Easter Ride is expected to become an annual initiative, with potential to grow into a national platform for advocacy and public education. At the same time, Nairobi Hospice aims to expand its reach, strengthen services and encourage earlier engagement with palliative care.

Take Part, Make a Difference

Nairobi Hospice continues to call on individuals, corporates, media and institutions to take part, whether by supporting training, sponsoring care, volunteering or amplifying awareness, to scale their work across the country.

Compassion here is practical, measurable and urgent. Every contribution, whether financial, in-kind, or through time and skills, directly supports patient care and strengthens capacity.

“Together, we can reach those still suffering in silence and build a kinder, more compassionate health system,” she adds.