If you are considering a career as an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) nurse in Kenya, one of the most important questions you may have is: How much does an ICU nurse earn per month in Kenya? In this guide, we provide a clear breakdown of the Kenya ICU nurse salary per month, the benefits that come with the job, and the unique challenges nurses face while working in critical care.
This comprehensive article will explain ICU nurses’ pay across public and private hospitals, allowances, career opportunities, and the factors that influence their salaries. Whether you are a nursing student, a practicing nurse planning to specialize, or simply exploring career options in healthcare, you will find all the details you need here.
Who Is an ICU Nurse?
An ICU nurse is a specialized nurse trained to care for critically ill patients who require constant monitoring, advanced medical care, and life-support interventions. ICU nurses work in hospitals’ intensive care units, taking care of patients with severe injuries, major surgeries, organ failures, or life-threatening illnesses.
Because of the complexity of their job and the level of responsibility they carry, ICU nurses in Kenya are among the better-paid nursing professionals in the healthcare sector.
Kenya ICU Nurse Salary Per Month in 2025
In Kenya, ICU nurses’ salaries depend on factors like their level of education (diploma, degree, or advanced specialty training), years of experience, and whether they work in the public or private sector.
ICU Nurse Salary in Public Hospitals
ICU nurses employed in public hospitals, under the Ministry of Health or county governments, earn salaries determined by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC). ICU nurses generally fall under higher job groups due to their specialization.
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Entry-level ICU nurse: KES 70,000 – 90,000 per month (including allowances)
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Mid-career ICU nurse: KES 100,000 – 130,000 per month
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Senior ICU nurse: KES 140,000 – 180,000+ per month
ICU Nurse Salary in Private Hospitals
Private hospitals often negotiate individual contracts and may offer slightly higher or competitive salaries for experienced ICU nurses.
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Small to mid-sized private hospitals: KES 60,000 – 80,000 per month
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Large urban private hospitals (e.g., Aga Khan, Nairobi Hospital): KES 100,000 – 160,000+ per month
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Highly specialized consultant ICU nurses: KES 180,000 – 250,000+ per month
Summary Table: Kenya ICU Nurse Salary Per Month (2025)
| Sector & Level | Estimated Monthly Pay (KES) |
|---|---|
| Public Sector — Entry-level ICU Nurse | 70,000 – 90,000 |
| Public Sector — Mid-career ICU Nurse | 100,000 – 130,000 |
| Public Sector — Senior ICU Nurse | 140,000 – 180,000+ |
| Private Sector — Small Hospitals | 60,000 – 80,000 |
| Private Sector — Top Urban Hospitals | 100,000 – 160,000+ |
| Specialized Consultant ICU Nurse | 180,000 – 250,000+ |
Benefits of Being an ICU Nurse in Kenya
Aside from competitive salaries, ICU nurses enjoy several benefits that make the career attractive:
1. Allowances
ICU nurses in the public sector receive allowances in addition to their basic pay:
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Risk Allowance: For working in high‑risk environments (KES 3,000 – 10,000 monthly).
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Commuter Allowance: For transportation costs (KES 5,000 – 12,000).
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House Allowance: To support accommodation (KES 7,500 – 20,000 depending on location).
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Uniform Allowance: To maintain professional appearance (KES 600 – 1,200 quarterly).
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Hardship Allowance: For working in remote or challenging areas (KES 3,000 – 15,000).
2. Job Security
Public hospital ICU nursing jobs are permanent and pensionable with retirement benefits.
3. Professional Growth
Specialized nurses have more opportunities for promotions and further training compared to general nurses.
4. Healthcare and Pension
Government nurses get medical cover for themselves and their dependents, as well as pension and gratuity upon retirement.
Factors That Influence ICU Nurse Salaries in Kenya
Education and Certification
Nurses with advanced degrees and ICU certifications earn more than diploma‑level nurses.
Experience
Salaries increase with experience, particularly if the nurse has developed skills in critical care, ventilator management, or advanced life support.
Location
Nurses posted in Nairobi or Mombasa tend to earn more than those in rural areas due to higher living costs and larger hospital budgets.
Sector
Private hospitals may offer higher pay to experienced ICU nurses, but job security and benefits are often better in public hospitals.
Shift Patterns
ICU nurses who work night shifts, weekends, or overtime may earn additional compensation.
Challenges of Working as an ICU Nurse in Kenya
While rewarding, ICU nursing is also one of the most demanding specialties in healthcare.
1. Emotional Stress
Caring for critically ill patients can be emotionally draining, especially when outcomes are poor.
2. Long Hours
ICU nurses often work 12‑hour shifts, including nights, weekends, and public holidays.
3. Physical Fatigue
The job involves standing for long periods, lifting patients, and responding quickly to emergencies.
4. High Responsibility
Any mistakes can have serious consequences, making the job highly stressful.
5. Understaffing
Many hospitals face staff shortages, leading to heavy workloads for ICU nurses.
Career Growth Opportunities for ICU Nurses in Kenya
ICU nurses have many paths to advance their careers:
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Becoming ICU unit heads or nurse managers.
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Pursuing advanced specializations like neonatal ICU or cardiac ICU.
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Teaching in nursing schools or becoming clinical instructors.
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Moving into healthcare administration or policy.
FAQs About Kenya ICU Nurse Salary Per Month
How much does an ICU nurse earn per month in Kenya?
Between KES 70,000 and 250,000 depending on experience, specialization, and sector.
Do ICU nurses earn more than general nurses in Kenya?
Yes. ICU nurses earn higher salaries due to their specialized training and the complexity of their work.
Do private hospitals pay more than public hospitals?
In some cases, yes — especially at the senior or consultant level — but public hospitals offer better job security and allowances.
What allowances do ICU nurses get in Kenya?
Risk, commuter, house, uniform, hardship, and overtime allowances, among others.
Are ICU nurses in demand in Kenya?
Yes. With increasing critical care needs, ICU nurses are highly sought after.
What qualifications do I need to become an ICU nurse?
At minimum, a diploma or degree in nursing plus ICU training and certification.
Do ICU nurses in Kenya get overtime pay?
In many private hospitals and some public ones, yes — especially for night and weekend shifts.
Is ICU nursing a good career choice in Kenya?
Yes. It offers competitive pay, career growth, and the chance to make a significant impact.
How long does it take to become an ICU nurse?
After nursing school, additional ICU training takes 6–12 months, depending on the program.
Can ICU nurses move abroad for work?
Yes. Kenyan ICU nurses are recognized internationally and can find opportunities in other countries.
Final Thoughts: Is ICU Nursing Worth It in Kenya?
ICU nursing is one of the most rewarding and challenging nursing specialties in Kenya. It offers higher salaries, better benefits, and more opportunities for advancement compared to general nursing roles. However, it also comes with emotional, physical, and professional challenges.
If you are passionate about critical care, willing to undergo specialized training, and prepared for a demanding but fulfilling career, ICU nursing is an excellent choice. Whether you choose the public or private sector, the need for skilled ICU nurses will continue to grow in Kenya.