Healthcare services in several counties, including Kisii, Nyamira, Machakos and Nairobi, have been disrupted as nurses embark on strikes demanding resolution of longstanding labour issues. This industrial action has intensified scrutiny of President William Ruto’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) initiative.
The Kenya National Union of Nurses and Midwives (KNUNM) attributes the strike to unresolved grievances despite ongoing discussions with national and county governments. Key demands include:
- Implementation of the 2025–2029 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA)
- Full application of the 2017 return-to-work formula
- Clear career progression guidelines for nurses
- Permanent and pensionable employment for UHC workers
- Timely payment of salaries and addressing staffing shortages
County governments have cited funding challenges and ongoing talks with the national government over financing UHC workers. However, the stalled absorption of these workers into county payrolls continues to hinder service delivery and staff morale.
Implications for UHC Rollout
The strikes have reignited debate on the viability of the UHC programme, which aims to broaden access to affordable healthcare through reforms in financing and service delivery. Experts warn that stable staffing is vital for public hospitals, which serve most patients seeking affordable treatment.
While the industrial action remains limited to certain counties, it underscores the urgent need to resolve frontline workers’ welfare concerns to ensure the programme’s success.
Negotiations between union leaders and government officials are ongoing to restore normal healthcare services and prevent the strike from spreading further.
