By Peter Ochieng
President William Ruto on Saturday hosted officials of the Kenya Medical Practitioners Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU), days after the union called off its 56-day strike.
KMPDU officials were led by Secretary General Davji Atellah, during the meeting held at State House, Nairobi.
Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha, and Principal Secretary in the State Department of Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni, were among others present.
President William Ruto said the government will consistently address the persistent human resource challenges, that slow down the realisation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
He said the Kenya Kwanza administration will continually engage stakeholders in the health sector, including health workers’ unions, to promote industrial harmony and long-lasting solutions to the challenges.
“The government will work with all stakeholders including unions to foster industrial harmony,” said the Head of State, per a statement issued to newsrooms by press secretary Emmanuel Talam.
Doctors ended their strike on Wednesday, after signing a return to work formualae with the Ministry of Health. CS Nakhumicha expressed gratitude to all parties involved in the negotiations.
While recognizing the hardships endured by patients and families during the strike, the CS lauded the dedication of healthcare professionals who remained committed to their duties amid the challenging circumstances.
Notably, she applauded the resilience of doctors, nurses, and community health promoters for their unwavering service, especially during the current flooding crisis affecting the nation.
As part of the resolution, plans are underway to review staffing norms and standards, enhance coordination through the Kenyan Health Human Resource Advisory Council, and establish an intergovernmental task force to address unresolved issues.
“Despite facing insults and threats, court intervention has paved the way for doctors to return to hospitals as we work towards resolving key issues. This isn’t just about us; it’s about every patient who deserves quality healthcare and every doctor who deserves fair compensation for their tireless work,” said Atellah upon conclusion of the strike.
“Our commitment to defending our CBA is resolute. We refuse to back down until every term is honored, every intern is treated fairly, and every doctor receives the compensation they rightly deserve.
The road ahead may be long and arduous, but the price of liberty is eternal vigilance. We’re prepared to continue this fight, fortified by our unity, determination, and unwavering belief in justice. The journey has only just begun, but together, we will prevail,” he added.
