Kenyan Nurse Lucy Kiprop Wins Nurse of the Year Award in the UK

Lucy Kiprop, a Kenyan nurse working in the United Kingdom, has been named Nurse of the Year 2026 at Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals NHS Trust. 

The award was presented on 8 May in recognition of her professionalism, compassion, and commitment to patient care within the National Health Service.

Kiprop graduated as valedictorian of the Class of 2018 from Kabarak University’s first Bachelor of Science in Nursing programme. 

The university praised her achievement, describing it as a reflection of the values of servant leadership and clinical excellence promoted during her training. In its statement, Kabarak University said Kiprop’s success demonstrates the institution’s role in preparing healthcare professionals for international careers. 

Her award has been widely welcomed by Kenyans at home and abroad. Many people on social media described her achievement as an inspiration to nursing students and young professionals pursuing careers in healthcare. 

Others said her success reflects the growing presence of Kenyan professionals in international healthcare systems. Kiprop responded with gratitude, saying she was honoured to receive the award on International Nurses Day. She also credited her achievement to faith and dedication to service.

Her recognition comes amid increasing international success for Kenyans in the diaspora. Recently, Doris Lemngole from West Pokot became the first Kenyan and the first University of Alabama athlete to receive the Bowerman Award.