Government pays Sh3.5 billion doctors’ salary arrears after years of dispute
The payment concludes the Sh3.75 billion owed under the 2017–2024 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), following the first instalment released in December 2024.
After years of delays, doctors across Kenya have finally received the second and final instalment of salary arrears amounting to Sh3.5 billion, covering dues dating back to 2017 and averting a planned nationwide strike.
The payment concludes the Sh3.75 billion owed under the 2017–2024 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), following the first instalment released in December 2024. The arrears, deposited into doctors’ accounts starting yesterday, ranged between Sh500,000 and Sh1 million per individual.
More To Read
- KMPDU renews call for payment of pending salary arrears, payslip update
- Relief for 633 doctors as Health Ministry approves postgraduate fee payments
- KMPDC shuts 544 health facilities, cancels 454 licenses over non-compliance
- Crisis looms as doctors issue 14-day strike notice over unpaid arrears
- Senators order crackdown on absenteeism in public hospitals
- KNH faces backlash as health unions question handling of suspect in patient murder
Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists’ Union (KMPDU) Secretary-General Davji Atellah hailed the move as a “historic victory” for doctors and the broader labour movement.
“Today marks a historic victory for doctors and the labour movement in Kenya. After seven years of relentless pursuit, the second and final batch of the 2017–2024 basic salary arrears has been released, and members have begun receiving them in their various banks,” he said.
President's pledge
Atellah noted that the breakthrough followed a personal pledge by President William Ruto during a State House meeting in May 2024.
“The President gave his commitment to resolve not only the arrears in less than two years but also other pending CBA issues,” he recalled.
Confirmation of the disbursement came in a letter dated September 9, 2025, from Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni of the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards. Addressed to Atellah, the letter stated that the second instalment had been “processed, approved, and released,” with instructions sent to banks to credit doctors’ accounts.
The union further confirmed that other CBA commitments have also been honoured. Interns have received Sh208,000 each, and postgraduate fees for about 633 doctors have been paid.
“We acknowledge the support of our Cabinet Secretary, Aden Duale, and PS Mary Muthoni, whose leadership has been instrumental in implementing the 2024 Return-to-Work Formula. The CS has embraced dialogue and a forthright attitude in implementing agreements,” Atellah said.
Looking ahead, KMPDU pledged to pursue arrears for 2024–2025, ensure that doctors’ payslips reflect updated salary rates, and advocate for the recruitment of 2,000 more doctors. Atellah also urged county governors to uphold agreements on doctors’ welfare and promotions, stressing that “industrial harmony is a prerequisite for successful Universal Health Coverage implementation.”
“This is your victory, doctors. As you smile to the bank, continue serving patients with renewed strength, dignity and compassion,” he added.
Top Stories Today
