Health workers in Eldoret staged a protest on Monday, pressing county officials to address delayed labour agreements and salary arrears that have affected their welfare.
The demonstration involved nurses, clinical officers, and laboratory technicians who marched from Eldoret Sports Club through Kisumu Road to the central business district, eventually reaching the Uasin Gishu County Assembly and the governor's offices.
The protest caused traffic disruptions, with police, led by Eldoret Central OCS James Lenaso, providing escort to maintain order.
Union Leaders Demand Action
Union representatives, including Kenya National Union of Nurses official Kevin Kimutai and Clinical Officers Union official Xavious Wamalwa, led the marchers and presented a memorandum to the county assembly.
Wamalwa warned of plans to escalate the strike next week, potentially halting operations in all hospitals, including private facilities. He indicated ongoing discussions with private sector colleagues to join the industrial action.
Kimutai emphasized the critical role nurses play in healthcare delivery and lamented prolonged neglect by county governments despite repeated negotiations.
Key Demands
- Implementation of Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs)
- Promotions for health workers
- Payment of outstanding salary arrears
"Our aim is to serve patients without interruption, but we cannot continue working while our rights are ignored," Kimutai stated. He insisted that unless the counties sign CBAs with all unions, healthcare services would remain disrupted.
The strike currently affects counties including Uasin Gishu, Nandi, Trans Nzoia, Elgeyo Marakwet, and Baringo.
