Hundreds of healthcare workers employed under the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) programme took to the streets of Nairobi, demanding job security and the immediate payment of their pending dues. The workers, many of whom were hired during the COVID-19 pandemic, expressed frustration over their continued contractual employment, which they described as precarious and unfair. They called on the government to grant them permanent and pensionable positions, arguing that they perform the same duties as their permanently employed counterparts but receive significantly less compensation.
The protest, which began at Green Park station before proceeding to Afya House and eventually the Senate, was marked by chants and placards demanding equal treatment for all healthcare workers. Many of the protesters argued that they had been on the front lines during the pandemic, risking their lives to care for COVID-19 patients, yet they now find themselves in an uncertain situation with no assurance of continued employment or financial stability. Some of the workers described their current employment terms as illegal, claiming that the government had reneged on its promise to transition them into permanent positions once the pandemic was under control.
One of the key grievances raised by the protesting workers was the failure of the government to pay their five-year gratuity, a sum of money that was promised to them at the end of their contractual term. Many of them also decried the non-remittance of their National Social Security Fund (NSSF) deductions, which they say has left them without critical benefits that should have been accumulating during their years of service. The workers insisted that they had honored their contracts and expected the government to do the same.
In addition to financial concerns, the healthcare workers emphasized the need for equal pay for equal work. They argued that despite carrying out the same responsibilities as permanently employed health professionals, they continue to receive lower wages and fewer benefits. Many pointed out that their colleagues who were absorbed into permanent positions enjoy job security, medical insurance, and other employment perks, while they are left struggling to make ends meet.
One of the protesters, speaking on behalf of the group, expressed deep disappointment with the government’s handling of their situation. “We fought and defeated the virus during the pandemic, but now, we have been forgotten,” the worker lamented. “We gave everything for this country, but in return, we are left with nothing.” The protesters made it clear that they were not asking for favors but rather for the fulfillment of promises made by the government when they first signed their contracts.
As they marched towards Parliament, the workers vowed to continue their demonstrations until their grievances were addressed. Many warned that if their demands were not met, they would consider withdrawing their services, which could have serious implications for the country’s healthcare system. Some workers also called on Parliament to establish a framework ensuring that future healthcare employees under similar government programs do not face the same predicament.
The Ministry of Health has yet to issue an official statement regarding the protests, but sources indicate that discussions are ongoing within government circles on how to handle the situation. Some healthcare unions have also voiced support for the protesting workers, arguing that their demands are justified and that the government must take immediate action to resolve the crisis.
The issue has sparked debate among policymakers, with some arguing that the country’s healthcare budget is already stretched thin, while others insist that healthcare workers must be prioritized given the critical role they play in society. As the standoff continues, the affected workers remain hopeful that their voices will be heard and that they will receive the justice they have been fighting for.
