More than 1,000 perioperative technicians and technologists across Kenya are calling on the government to formally recognize and regulate their profession through a defined scheme of service. The appeal was made during the inaugural Perioperative Technicians and Technologists Association (POTTA) scientific conference held in Mombasa.
POTTA patron Denis Oketch urged the government to streamline the profession, noting that the lack of a formal structure has hindered members’ welfare and the efficiency of surgical care across the country.
“Our members do not have a proper scheme of service, and we want the government to act quickly so perioperative technicians can be fully recognised and supported,” Oketch stated during the event.
Opening the two-day conference, Gome Lenga, Manager of Medical Services at the Kenya Ports Authority, praised perioperative professionals as a vital link in the surgical care chain. He noted that their technical expertise ensures smooth theatre operations and patient safety.
POTTA Chairperson Meshack Otieno described the conference as a milestone, offering members a platform to address challenges affecting their work environment. He raised alarm over the growing number of unregulated institutions offering perioperative training without proper accreditation.
“We urge TVET CDACC to monitor such institutions closely to protect the integrity of the profession,” Otieno said.
POTTA Organising Secretary Grace Karanja highlighted the indispensable role of perioperative professionals in ensuring patient safety before, during, and after surgery. She called for greater inclusion, employment opportunities, and an end to workplace stigma.
POTTA currently represents over 1,000 members and aims to grow its membership to 3,000 by next year. The association’s broader goal is to strengthen professional standards, advocate for members’ welfare, and enhance the quality of surgical care in Kenya’s healthcare system.
