The Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) has issued a seven-day strike notice, set to commence at midnight on February 18, 2025. This move follows the government’s continued failure to address the officers’ long-standing grievances regarding employment terms, salary harmonization, and other entitlements.
In a strongly worded statement, KUCO expressed frustration over what they termed as persistent neglect by the government and its agencies. Despite numerous petitions, written memoranda, and correspondences, the union claims that their concerns remain unaddressed.
Key Demands
The Clinical Officers under the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) program have outlined several key demands, including:
- Salary Harmonization: The union is demanding that salaries be brought in line with those of other civil service employees.
- Immediate Payment of Gratuity: Clinical Officers seek prompt payment for years of service under the UHC program.
- Permanent and Pensionable Employment: The transition from contractual to permanent employment remains a key issue.
- NSSF Contributions: KUCO demands the full remittance of National Social Security Fund (NSSF) contributions for the period served.
- Salary Arrears: The union is pushing for the settlement of outstanding May 2024 salary arrears.
Breach of the Return-to-Work Agreement
KUCO has accused the government of failing to honor the Return-to-Work Agreement (RTWA) signed on January 14, 2025. The agreement, signed between the Ministry of Health and the Council of Governors, was meant to resolve the officers’ grievances. However, the union notes that despite suspending a previous strike through a letter dated January 22, 2025, for a 21-day period ending February 17, 2025, the agreed resolutions have not been implemented.
Implications of the Strike
The nationwide strike by Clinical Officers is expected to significantly impact healthcare service delivery across the country. Clinical Officers play a crucial role in Kenya’s healthcare system, particularly in public hospitals and rural health facilities. If their demands are not met, the impending industrial action could result in a major crisis, affecting thousands of patients who rely on their services.
KUCO has called on the government to act swiftly to avert the strike, emphasizing that they remain open to dialogue. However, the union maintains that failure to meet their demands within the stipulated seven days will leave them with no choice but to withdraw their services.
As the February 18 deadline approaches, all eyes are on the Ministry of Health and the Council of Governors to see whether a resolution will be reached or if Kenya’s healthcare sector will face yet another disruption.
