Doctors Warn of Another Strike Over Unfulfilled Healthcare Promises, Issue Govt Ultimatum

KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Atellah at a past press conference

Kenya’s healthcare sector faces new challenges, as doctors, represented by the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU), threaten to strike again. 

In a statement this week, the union claimed that the government had not kept promises made after their last strike which ended on May 8 with a return-to-work agreement after 56 days. 

Doctors say the lack of action on these commitments has left many of them frustrated and unsure about the future of healthcare in the country.

KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Atella voiced frustration over the government’s inaction and called on the authorities to address their demands before the end of the month. 

“The government has not implemented the agreement we signed in May,” he stated.

Healthcare workers during a past protest in Nairobi.

Dr. Jackson Kamonzi, North Rift branch secretary, echoed this sentiment, noting that many doctors are forced to abandon their medical duties to engage with county and national officials. 

The KMPDU has set a deadline of November 30 for the government to act on their demands. 

If no action is taken by then, the union plans to issue a seven-day strike notice, Dr. Atella warned, adding that the union can no longer rely on “promises” alone. 

“Our patients have seen enough; we cannot rely on promises anymore,” he remarked.

The healthcare system appears to be reaching a critical juncture, as workers consider another strike and public discontent grows over the quality of care in government hospitals.