This archive report was first published on 8 June 2020.
June 8, 2020 - The Kenya Medical Practitioners Union (KMPDU) has expressed frustration over the delayed payment of risk allowances to its members, despite promises from the government.
Speaking during a press briefing, KMPDU Acting Secretary General Dr. Mwachonda Chibanzi stated that the union has not received the monies promised by the Salaries and Remunerations Commission (SRC) for over a month.
"More than a month now, we have not yet received the monies promised by the Salaries and Remunerations Commission (SRC). This is not just a concern but a demand that the government honors its pledge," Dr. Chibanzi emphasized.
However, the union has commended Machakos County for taking proactive steps to ensure the well-being of healthcare workers on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additionally, KMPDU has urged counties to increase the number of isolation beds to the minimum 300 beds as directed by the Ministry of Health, and to improvise with quality jua kali beds where necessary.
Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe had earlier directed counties to have a minimum of 300 beds in their isolation wards within 14 days, citing the need for preparedness in the face of a possible surge in COVID-19 cases.
