Nairobi medical laboratory officers threaten to strike over delayed March salaries
The union has accused the county of violating labour laws, noting that the delay has left many healthcare workers unable to meet basic obligations, including food, rent and school fees.
The Kenya National Union of Medical Laboratory Officers (KNUMLO) has criticised the Nairobi County Government for failing to pay health workers their March 2025 salaries, warning that the continued delay could lead to a strike.
The union has accused the county of violating labour laws, noting that the delay has left many healthcare workers unable to meet basic obligations, including food, rent and school fees.
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In a letter dated April 10 and addressed to the Nairobi County Secretary, KNUMLO expressed concern over the financial hardship faced by workers, stating that the non-payment is unlawful and has created an environment of low morale among staff.
The union pointed to the Employment Act, 2007, and the Labour Relations Act, 2007, which mandate the timely payment of wages as clear violations of workers’ rights.
“We write to express our deep concern regarding the continued delay in payment of March 2025 salaries to the Nairobi County health workforce. As of today, April 10, 2025, salaries have not been remitted, subjecting employees to undue financial hardship,” KNUMLO Nairobi Branch Secretary Denis Oduor said.
“Many are unable to meet their basic obligations, including food, housing, school fees and medical care.”
Employment Act breach
KNUMLO described the ongoing delay as not only unjust but also unlawful, stressing that it breaches the Employment Act and the Labour Relations Act, both of which require the timely payment of wages and fair treatment of workers.
“This situation is not only unjust but also unlawful. The Employment Act, 2007 and the Labour Relations Act, 2007 clearly mandate the timely payment of wages and the fair treatment of workers. The ongoing delay constitutes a breach of these provisions and threatens the well-being and dignity of our members,” Oduor said.
The union also warned that the financial strain caused by the delay has negatively affected workers’ morale and productivity.
“The continued financial strain has also led to declining morale and productivity among healthcare staff, further jeopardising the quality and efficiency of essential health services in Nairobi County,” Oduor added.
In response to the ongoing crisis, KNUMLO has warned that unless the salaries are paid, healthcare workers will put down their tools.
Oduor noted that while the union regrets the potential disruption of critical health services, it views this action as necessary to protect the rights and welfare of its members.
“We regret that this action may lead to disruption of critical health services, but it is a necessary step to safeguard the rights and welfare of our members,” he said.
The Union has urged the Nairobi County Government to address the matter urgently to avoid further escalation.
“We urge your office to treat this matter with the urgency it deserves and ensure immediate resolution to avoid further escalation,” Oduor said.
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