Healthcare services in Kajiado County have been severely disrupted following a strike by Universal Health Coverage (UHC) workers that began on March 7, 2025. The strike has left public health facilities, including the Kajiado Referral Hospital, understaffed and unable to provide adequate care, forcing patients to seek medical attention in private facilities.
The striking workers are demanding overdue promotions, permanent and pensionable employment terms, and the remittance of statutory deductions, which they claim have not been submitted for over 117 months. Wilson Leala, the Secretary General of the Nurses’ Union in Kajiado, expressed the frustrations of the workers, stating, “We have third-party statutory deductions like CPF that have not been remitted for 117 months. They are deducted from our payslips but are not submitted to the right place.” He further accused the county government of resorting to intimidation tactics, including issuing transfer and show-cause letters to striking nurses.
The impact of the strike is evident, with empty hospital wards and patients being discharged prematurely. Caregivers and patients have expressed frustration over the lack of services, highlighting the dire situation faced by those who cannot afford private healthcare.
Union leaders have urged their members to remain steadfast, emphasizing that the strike is legally sanctioned and that they will pursue legal action against any intimidation tactics. The county government has yet to address the workers’ grievances, leaving the health sector in a state of crisis.
This ongoing impasse underscores the urgent need for dialogue and resolution to restore healthcare services in Kajiado County and ensure the well-being of its residents.
