KMPDU blames counties for ongoing health strikes, cites failure to honour agreements
KMPDU's Atellah said the ongoing strikes stem from a lack of commitment by county administrations to implement critical agreements signed at the national level.
The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has blamed ongoing strikes in multiple counties on the continued failure of county governments to uphold signed agreements and resolve long-standing grievances raised by healthcare workers.
Speaking in an interview with a local radio station, KMPDU Secretary-General, Dr Davji Atellah, said the ongoing strikes stem from a lack of commitment by county administrations to implement critical agreements signed at the national level.
More To Read
- Kiambu doctors down tools as strike begins over pay, promotions and health insurance woes
- Behind the white coats: Kenyan healthcare workers battle burnout, grief and neglect
- Medical interns to begin posting on July 1 after online balloting
- Government to post medical interns starting July 1 - Duale
- Nairobi County doctors end month-long strike after securing key demands
- Ruto drops Kimtai as Medical Services PS, nominates ex-kmpdu boss Ouma Oluga
He explained that although the union had previously signed a return-to-work agreement with both the Ministry of Health and the Council of Governors, many counties have failed to act on those commitments.
According to Atellah, the Ministry of Health has largely fulfilled its side of the agreement, but several county governments have not, resulting in recurring strikes.
Governance challenge
He pointed out that while the health sector requires functioning infrastructure, adequate medical supplies, and human resources, the core challenge remains governance.
“Governance in healthcare is complex because while we have a firm ministry headed by a resolute cabinet secretary, the 47 county governments operate semi-autonomously and often choose to respond independently. Even though agreements are signed and policies established, only around 30 counties actually implement them,” said Atellah during an interview with Spice FM.
Same issues
Atellah said the union has witnessed strikes break out in counties including Kiambu, Kakamega, Nakuru, Lamu, and Laikipia, each triggered by the same unresolved issues.
He stressed that the counties that fail to prioritise health worker welfare and service delivery are the ones repeatedly facing industrial action.
"I can tell you that the agreements we signed with the Ministry of Health have been implemented, but now we are facing strikes in different counties, almost six strikes, happening almost every month, over the same issues," said Atellah.
The KMPDU is urging for better coordination between the Ministry of Health and the counties to ensure uniform implementation of healthcare policies and agreements, warning that without this, the health crisis will persist.
Atellah emphasised the need for political leaders to prioritise investment in public healthcare to ensure an effective system.
Top Stories Today
