Clinical officers end strike after signing deal with Ministry of Health

The Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) has officially ceased their strike, which began in early March this year, following the successful signing of a return-to-work formula with the Ministry of Health.

According to a statement by the Ministry of Health, the clinicians will resume operations immediately.

"The Ministry of Health is pleased to announce the successful signing of a return-to-work formula with the Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO). This agreement resolves all issues outlined in the strike notice dated March 25, 2024, and ensures the immediate resumption of services by clinical officers."

In response to this development, KUCO committed to ending the strike immediately, urging all union members who participated in the industrial action to promptly return to their duties.

The Ministry of Health also acknowledged and appreciated the patience and understanding of the public and reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing collaborative relationships with healthcare stakeholders to further enhance health service delivery nationwide.

Clinical officers protest in the streets of Mombasa over reduced salaries and allowances on May 29, 2024. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)

Earlier this month, KUCO Secretary General George Gibore initially called off the strike following an agreement with the governors, but subsequently, the strike against the national government.

Clinical officers commenced their strike on April 1, following a seven-day strike notice issued on March 25.

Efforts are now underway between KUCO and the Ministry of Health to methodically address concerns outlined in the strike notice, focusing particularly on the Collective Bargaining Agreement and the internship programme.

The demands of the clinical officers covered a range of issues, including negotiations for a complete Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), promotions and job reclassifications, ensuring permanent and pensionable terms for Universal Health Coverage (UHC) staff hires, stipends for interns, comprehensive medical insurance coverage, higher risk allowances, and ending unauthorised punitive contracts with hospital boards.