Health CS Nakhumicha pleads with doctors to call off strike

By Moses Muli

Published: March,6 2024 5PM(EAT)

Health cabinet secretary Susan Nakhumicha has pleaded with the doctors to be patient as the government explores ways to handle their grievances.

Speaking in Nairobi while flagging off cold chain equipment to the 47 counties, the CS specifically asked the doctors to call off a strike planned for next week.

She explained concerns that patients will be the most affected if the doctors actualized their threat to go on strike.

”A strike won’t bring about a resolution. Instead, i request the doctor’s patience as we go towards finding a way forward. We are committed to addressing this issue and cannot overlook it. It’s crucial to note that they won’t remain interns; once they complete the year, they will be the ones we rely on, Therefore, they must receive proper supervision,” said Nakhumicha.

Additionally, she urged unions to permit discussions and dialogues between health care workers and the government, emphasizing that numerous matters need to be addressed and a strike is not the solution.

“Let them give us time so that we address this issue. I know they are anxious about their posting, but after we solve the outstanding issues, and bring everyone on board, we will be able to communicate to them,” the CS said.

Doctors recently issued the government with a one-week strike notice in the event intern doctors are not posted to work. The doctors have vowed to paralyze Heathcare services country wide.

Besides the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentist Union (KPMDU) wants the ministry to address promotions, medical cover, and payment of postgraduate fees before they can call off the strike.

The union has also demanded to have doctors work in their respective counties and the Ministry of health give study leave and pension.

The KPMDU deputy secretary general Dennis Miskellah said most medical interns are at home, even after completing their studies, with a lack of commitment by the government to posting them. There are at least 1215 medical interns awaiting posting.

He said on January 22, the union held a meeting with the Ministry, and it was agreed that the medical interns would be posted by February, which is yet to be fulfilled.

The CS said the Public Health principal secretary Mary Muthoni held a meeting with the Union officials to seek a lasting solution to their grievances.

” I assure the doctors that we shall find a solution, this matter is not that big,” said Nakhumicha.