Nurses in Uasin Gishu County have downed their tools, paralyzing operations in over 138 health facilities across the region. The healthcare workers, led by the Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN), accuse Governor Jonathan Bii’s administration of failing to address a host of grievances, including stalled Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) negotiations, delayed promotions, and non-implementation of critical salary structures.
The strike, which began following a December 16 notice issued by KNUN Secretary General Seth Panyako, saw nurses march through the streets of Eldoret City before staging a sit-in at the county headquarters. Their actions underscore mounting frustrations over what they describe as the county government’s unwillingness to engage in dialogue or honor previous commitments to improve their working conditions.
Grievances at the Heart of the Strike
At the core of the nurses’ demands is the county’s refusal to negotiate a new CBA. According to KNUN’s Uasin Gishu branch secretary, Klein Kimutai, the administration has not only ignored the union’s calls for dialogue but also failed to implement previously agreed-upon measures. These include redesignating specialized nurses and adopting the 2024 Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) salary structure.
“The lack of implementation has stalled career progression for many nurses,” Kimutai said, adding that some have been stuck in the same job group for over a decade. Allegations have also emerged that funds earmarked for promotions were diverted by county officials, further deepening mistrust.
The union listed nine other grievances, including:
- Failure to convert Universal Health Coverage (UHC) nurses to permanent and pensionable terms.
- Delayed implementation of the National Registered CBA for seconded nurses.
- Non-implementation of a 17-tier grading structure, which is crucial for career progression.
- Delays in remitting statutory deductions, leading to penalties and financial distress for affected nurses.
Impact on Healthcare Services
The strike has significantly disrupted healthcare services in the county, with more than 700 nurses, including 400 on permanent terms, participating. Patients seeking treatment at various facilities were turned away or referred to private hospitals, increasing the burden on families already struggling with rising medical costs.
The situation is dire, as Uasin Gishu County is a critical healthcare provider for its residents and those from neighboring counties. The strike highlights the vulnerability of Kenya’s healthcare system to labor disputes and administrative inefficiencies.
Silence from County Officials
Efforts to secure comments from Governor Jonathan Bii and the County Executive for Health, Abraham Serem, were unsuccessful as both reportedly failed to respond to calls. The nurses, however, remain resolute, stating that they will not return to work until their demands are met.
“The county has ignored mediation efforts initiated by the Ministry of Labour, leaving us with no choice but to continue our strike,” Kimutai said.
He also noted that the union is prepared to escalate its actions if the county government continues to dismiss their grievances.
