The Kenyan national and county governments have agreed to transition nurse recruitment to contract-based positions, aiming to resolve prolonged industrial action that disrupted healthcare services. This decision follows a summit between President Uhuru Kenyatta and regional governors, who emphasized collaborative governance to prevent service disruptions.
A joint statement from Health Cabinet Secretary Sicily Kariuki and Council of Governors chairman Wycliffe Oparanya outlined the policy change, stating that all nursing vacancies resulting from normal attrition would be filled through contractual agreements. The Public Service Commission will develop standardized terms for health sector employment, incorporating input from the Service Regulation Committee (SRC).
The agreement emerged after 14 counties experienced nurse strikes over pay disputes, with some staff still absent from duty. Officials warned that failure to resume work within 10 days would trigger disciplinary action. This measure aligns with the president's earlier directive to address defiance through employment termination, as part of broader efforts to stabilize public health services.
Both levels of government committed to regular consultations and unified communication to manage healthcare challenges. The Labour and Social Protection ministry will oversee industrial relations, while contingency plans were established to address unresolved issues beyond the 60-day conciliation period. The initiative aims to ensure compliance with legal frameworks while prioritizing service delivery continuity.
