Nursing Council appoints Dr. Onsongo as new Registrar/CEO

KENYA—The Nursing Council of Kenya, a professional regulatory body overseeing all cadres of nursing and midwifery in the country, has announced Lister Onsongo’s appointment as the new Registrar and CEO, effective September 1, 2024.

Dr. Onsongo will take over from former CEO Edna Tallam, whose tenure concluded in December 2023.

This significant appointment was disclosed by the Nursing Council Chairperson, Eunice Ndirangu, following the completion of a comprehensive and competitive recruitment process.

Dr. Onsongo is set to replace Anne Mukuna, who has been serving as the Acting Registrar/CEO while the council conducted its search for a permanent leader.

Dr. Onsongo brings to the role an extensive background in healthcare leadership, coupled with a profound commitment to advancing the nursing and midwifery professions in Kenya.

In her new position, Dr. Onsongo will oversee the coordination and regulation of all nursing and midwifery-related activities in the country, with a particular focus on education and practice.

Her role will also encompass providing leadership in research, innovation, digitization, and the implementation of new technologies in nursing and midwifery practices.

Currently, Dr. Onsongo is a lecturer at Kenyatta University in the Department of Community & Reproductive Health Nursing.

Her areas of specialization include Health Education and Oncology. Her research interests encompass pain management, cancer symptom science, palliative care, and both qualitative and mixed research methods.

While welcoming Dr. Onsongo to the Council, Chairperson Eunice Ndirangu highlighted her expertise and vision.

 Ndirangu expressed confidence that Dr. Onsongo’s leadership will be instrumental in guiding the organization to new heights.

She emphasized that Dr. Onsongo’s leadership will support the Council’s mission to regulate nursing and midwifery education and practice, thereby protecting the public and enhancing healthcare quality in Kenya.