- The public sections, led by the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) had issued a 14-day strike notice
- However, the government entered into an agreement with unions which led to them calling off the planned strike
- In the agreement, the has extended the existing medical insurance scheme for public servants under SHA until November 21, 2024
Amos Khaemba, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.
Nairobi—Public sector unions’ planned strike over the transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Authority (SHA) has been called off.
The development follows an agreement between the unions and the Ministry of Health on Wednesday, October 23.
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The unions, led by the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU), had issued a 14-day strike notice.
However, the government responded to the issues raised, including extending the existing medical insurance scheme for public servants under SHA until November 21, 2024.
The government also assured the public servants of uninterrupted access to health services beyond this period.
“It is not in our interest to call strikes, but we do so to make the employer respond to our concerns. The government has now responded, and we are therefore calling off the strike,” said Union of Kenya Civil Servants Secretary-General Tom Odege.
The agreement also forms an ad hoc committee to ensure a smooth transition for NHIF employees in compliance with the Social Health Insurance Act (2023), the Employment Act (2007), the Labour Relations Act, and collective bargaining agreements.
The agreement suspends legal actions related to the transition, with both parties agreeing to negotiate in good faith.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
