Kenya Clinical Officers End 36-Day Strike After Reaching Pay Agreement
Public hospitals in Kenya are set to resume normal operations following the successful conclusion of a 36-day strike by clinical officers, demonstrating the importance of responsible negotiation and commitment to public service delivery.
The Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) and the Council of Governors (CoG) reached a comprehensive agreement on Wednesday, signing a return-to-work formula that addresses longstanding employment concerns while prioritizing patient care.
Strike Resolution Through Constructive Dialogue
The industrial action, which began on December 23, 2025, was triggered by stalled collective bargaining agreement negotiations, delayed implementation of reviewed remuneration structures, and issues surrounding the absorption of Global Fund and Universal Health Coverage staff into permanent positions.
KUCO Secretary General George Gibore announced the agreement, emphasizing the union's commitment to resolving disputes through proper channels rather than prolonged disruption of essential services.
"This is a happy day for clinical officers. It is a day we have not had for quite some time," said KUCO Chairperson Peterson Wachira during the memorandum signing ceremony.
Comprehensive Agreement Details
The negotiated settlement includes several key provisions that demonstrate fiscal responsibility and structured implementation:
The collective bargaining agreement will be formally signed on February 2, 2026, and concluded by February 16, 2026, providing certainty and clear timelines for all parties involved.
County governments have committed to paying a risk allowance of 5,000 Kenyan shillings in the 2025-2026 financial year, with arrears backdated to July 2025. This allowance will increase to 7,000 shillings from July 2026, reflecting a measured approach to compensation improvements.
The agreement also ensures immediate implementation of the Salaries and Remuneration Commission-reviewed pay structure for the third cycle, along with settlement of related arrears.
Structured Transition for Contract Staff
Addressing employment security concerns, the agreement establishes a clear framework for staff absorption. Global Fund employees will be handled through a transition committee established under the National and County Governments Coordinating Summit resolution of December 10, 2025.
Universal Health Coverage staff will receive permanent and pensionable employment terms in line with approved remuneration structures, contingent on fund release by the National Treasury and appropriation in the 2026-2027 Division of Revenue Act.
Nandi Governor Stephen Sang, representing the Council of Governors, confirmed that the agreement carries the full backing of all 47 county governments, demonstrating unity in governance and commitment to healthcare worker welfare.
Protection Against Victimization
The memorandum includes important protections for clinical officers, guaranteeing non-victimization and the revocation of any disciplinary actions taken as a consequence of their participation in addressing employment grievances.
This provision reflects mature governance practices and recognition of workers' legitimate rights to advocate for improved working conditions through proper channels.
The resolution of this strike demonstrates the effectiveness of structured negotiation and the importance of maintaining essential services while addressing legitimate worker concerns through established institutional frameworks.