On January 20, 2025, the Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) will commence a nationwide strike. The decision comes after the union’s demands for better working conditions and the implementation of a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) signed in September 2024 were not met by the government.
The strike notice was issued following a series of unresolved issues, including discrimination by the Social Health Authority (SHA) against clinical officers. KUCO Secretary General George Gibore stated that the union had no choice but to withdraw their services due to the lack of goodwill from both the national and county governments.
Among the key demands of the union are the conversion of short-term contractual employment for clinicians into permanent and pensionable terms, comprehensive medical coverage, and the recognition and empanelment of health providers registered and licensed by the Clinical Officers Council. The union also demands the resignation of Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa and the CEO of the Social Health Authority, Robert Ingasira, over issues affecting the rollout of the new health scheme.
The strike is expected to have a significant impact on public health services across the country, as clinical officers play a crucial role in providing healthcare services. KUCO has expressed its willingness to engage in constructive dialogue with the government and other stakeholders to resolve the issues and ensure uninterrupted health service delivery. The union’s national chairperson, Peterson Wachira, emphasized that the strike is a last resort and that they are aware of the potential suffering it may cause. However, he stressed that the government’s failure to address their grievances left them with no other option.As the strike date approaches, both the union and the government are urged to find a swift and amicable solution to avoid a health crisis in the country.
