Unions representing public health workers in the country have issued a seven day strike notice after which all members will go on strike as from 16th of April 2024.
The unions comprising of the The Kenya Environmental Health and Public Health Practitioners Union (KEHPHPU), The Kenya National Union of Pharmaceutical Technologist Officers (KNUPT) and The Kenya National Union of Nutritionists and Dietitians (KUNAD) said that they had earlier issued a seven day demand notice that was not honoured by the government and Ministry of Health.
The demand seeks for fair treatment and payment of all members including posting and paying of interns, immediate recognition and absorption of their union members.
Speaking at a press conference in Nairobi on Tuesday, KEHPHPU General Secretary Mr Brown Achira said that they are the only three unions whose members are still at work and they are to stop soon.
“We want the government to sign the recognition agreement and it is non-monetary,” said Mr Achira.
KNUP General Secretary Mr Elias Mutuma stated that the government should focus and set priorities as health is more important.
“The government may build houses, roads and offer job opportunities to people but who will benefit if they are all sick or dead,” stated Mr. Mutuma.
KUNAD General Secretary Mr. Michael Odero said that the court ordered the Health Cabinet secretary and Principal Secretary to pay medical interns but they have not done so.
“The government has blacklisted the ongoing doctor’s strike saying there is no money while housing projects are being put up in the country,” stated Mr. Odero adding that they fully support the doctor’s strike.
He further added that they were ready to be arrested as long as it is fighting for justice.
By Stacie Ang’aya and Margaret Gathigia
