Government Pledges to Address Human Resource Shortage in Medical Sector for Universal Health Coverage
The government has committed to resolving the human resource shortage in the medical sector to support the attainment of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in the country.
President William Ruto, in a meeting with the leadership of the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) on Saturday, emphasized his administration’s dedication to ensuring the health sector is adequately staffed to enhance service delivery for all Kenyans.
“The government is keen on addressing the persistent human resource inadequacies that hinder the realization of Universal Health Coverage. By continually engaging with stakeholders, including labor unions, we aim to promote industrial harmony and sustainable solutions to our challenges,” President Ruto stated.
This meeting follows closely on the heels of KMPDU calling off a 56-day strike. The union agreed to return to work after signing a return-to-work agreement with the Ministry of Health and county governments on May 8.
“The strike has been called off, and doctors should resume work immediately,” announced Davji Atellah, KMPDU Secretary General.
The strike had centered on issues such as intern doctors’ pay, working conditions, and the implementation of the 2017 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Although the strike has ended, Atellah noted that the matter concerning interns remains unresolved. The union has agreed on a 60-day period for consideration of this issue in light of an active court case.
The government’s engagement with KMPDU reflects a commitment to addressing critical workforce issues in the healthcare sector, thereby supporting the broader goal of achieving UHC for all Kenyans.
