Kenyan doctors have cancelled their plan to down their tools after striking a deal with the Ministry of Health.
The temporary deal was agreed between Health Cabinet Secretary (CS) Susan Nakhumicha and the doctors’ union, Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU).
Also in attendance was the Chair of the Council of Governors (CoG) Health Committee, Governor Muthomi Njuki.
The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union had threatened to withdraw their services from hospitals nationwide, citing the ministry’s failure to deploy interns and pay those who had already been assigned.
CS Nakhumicha informed the union at the meeting that the pending salaries for medical interns would be cleared as soon as possible and that the final batch of interns will be sent to their respective stations.
The union leaders, led by SG Dr Davji Atela, agreed to rescind the recent strike notification and to offer dialogue a chance to resolve the issues highlighted.
CS Nakhumicha committed to resolving grievances within the next two weeks.
“The meeting is a step in the right direction towards ensuring that medical interns receive their salaries promptly and are posted to their respective stations to serve the public,” said the Ministry of Health.
“The commitment by all parties involved to dialogue and resolve the issues raised is commendable and will go a long way in improving the healthcare sector in Kenya.”
On the other hand, Governor Muthomi Njuki reaffirmed the county government’s commitment to resolving issues raised by various health unions that directly affect the counties.
