The Karenni Nurses Association (KNA), a key provider of healthcare services in Karenni State, reports that the shortage of essential medicines has remained a persistent and growing challenge throughout its three years of operation, according to its chairperson.

Operating under the interim administration of the Karenni Interim Executive Council (IEC), KNA delivers healthcare services across 10 townships within Karenni State.

“Since our operations rely entirely on donations, we are currently facing significant challenges,” the KNA chairperson stated. “Beyond direct healthcare delivery, we are also involved in capacity building, livelihood education, nurse training, and efforts to expand and strengthen the federal health system. These efforts will continue.”

She further noted that operational challenges have worsened due to declining donor support, as the organization has been heavily dependent on donor assistance.

Despite these constraints, KNA has provided healthcare services to an estimated 120,000 people across the 10 townships. During its three years of operation, the most commonly treated illnesses have included colds, influenza, and hypertension.

The Karenni Nurses Association (KNA) is collaborating with the IEC to implement healthcare initiatives. Although the association currently operates 45 clinics across various townships in the state, it continues to face significant shortages of essential medicines.

KNA reiterated its commitment to delivering high-quality healthcare and to building a public health system grounded in community participation and resilience.

Founded on February 28, 2022, with an initial team of 160 nurses and healthcare professionals, KNA was established to address the healthcare needs of the Karenni population. Currently, the association operates with 120 healthcare workers. Yet, the organization warns that its long-term sustainability is increasingly threatened by persistent medicine shortages and reduced external support.