President William Ruto has extended the term of the Taskforce on Human Resources for Health by an additional 60 days. Initially established on July 5, 2024, the 20-member taskforce was formed to serve a six-month term, with its mandate set to conclude in early January 2025. The extension, announced in a Gazette Notice dated December 13, takes effect from January 5, 2025.
The taskforce is chaired by Dr. Khama Rogo, with Judith Guserwa serving as vice-chairperson. Its membership is composed of notable health professionals, including Dr. Patrick Amoth, Dr. John Masasabi, Dr. Toseef Din, Dr. Wilson Aruasa, Doreen Rhoda Kanyua, Dennis Miskellah, and Dr. Francis Wafula. Others include Habiba Mohamed, Lucy Mburu, Collins Kiprono, Victor Miseda, Christine Okoth, Carolyne Mage, Jacinta Rwamba, Justina Wamae, Kanyenje Gakombe, Moses Alutalala Mukhwana, and Benard Ondeng Otieno Choi.
President Ruto appointed Edna Tallam-Kimaiyo and Morris Kaburu as joint secretaries for the taskforce, while Hezron Omollo and Vivienne Eyase serve as its secretaries.
Objectives of the Taskforce
The primary mandate of the taskforce is to identify and recommend reforms in the legal, policy, administrative, institutional, and operational frameworks governing human resources for health in Kenya. Its objectives include:
- Addressing Recruitment Challenges
The taskforce will assess and propose solutions to existing gaps in the recruitment, replacement, training, and retention of healthcare professionals. - Harmonizing Employment Terms
In the spirit of “equal work for equal pay,” the taskforce aims to review and advise on the harmonization of terms of employment for healthcare workers across the country. - Reviewing Performance
The team is tasked with evaluating the performance of Kenya’s Human Resources for Health (HRH) and suggesting improvements to strengthen the workforce. - Advising on Devolution and Coordination
The taskforce will address the disconnect between national and county governments in managing healthcare services and personnel while upholding the principles of devolution. - Engaging Stakeholders
The taskforce has been empowered to hold meetings with officials from both levels of government, consult with stakeholders in public forums, and co-opt experts in specialized areas to ensure an inclusive and thorough review.
Challenges in the Sector
President Ruto emphasized that the management of healthcare human resources is a shared responsibility between national and county governments. However, the sector faces significant challenges, including fragmentation and poor coordination. These issues have hindered the effective delivery of healthcare services and the efficient management of personnel.
“The management of human resources for health is a shared function between the two levels of government. The key challenges are, however, fragmentation and a disconnect in the management of health services and personnel,” Ruto noted.
The taskforce is expected to evaluate existing frameworks and propose actionable reforms to bridge these gaps and enhance healthcare delivery.
Powers and Structure
To expedite its work, the taskforce has the authority to create sub-committees and regulate its procedures. It is also tasked with reviewing relevant policies, legislation, and official reports related to its mandate. Additionally, the team can co-opt experts to provide insights into specific areas requiring attention.
Looking Ahead
As the taskforce enters its extended period, its recommendations will be critical in shaping the future of healthcare in Kenya. With a mandate to tackle systemic issues, streamline management, and improve working conditions for healthcare professionals, the taskforce’s success could set the stage for transformative reforms in the sector.
The final report, expected after the 60-day extension, will provide a roadmap for addressing challenges and implementing sustainable solutions to improve Kenya’s health workforce and service delivery.
