Kiambu Doctors End 150-Day Strike After Deal with County Government

 

By Phanice Rono 

 Healthcare services in Kiambu County are set to resume after doctors called off their 150-day strike following the signing of a deal with the county government to resolve salary arrears, pending promotions, and other welfare issues.

The agreement, reached after a series of discussions involving the Council of Governors (CoG), the Kiambu County Government, and the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU), marks the end of a protracted standoff that had paralyzed health services across the county.

KMPDU Secretary-General Dr. Davji Atellah confirmed the signing of a return-to-work formula that outlines how the county will address the doctors’ grievances.

“We have a return-to-work formula that has been signed today. The governor has given a commitment to pay pending promotions within a timely manner and clear arrears of six weeks. This is a clear expression of goodwill,” said Dr. Atellah.

According to the agreement, one month’s withheld salary will be paid immediately alongside the October salary, while the remaining arrears will be cleared in the next financial year. The county also pledged to reinstate union dues deductions and assured that no doctor who took part in the strike will face disciplinary action.

Governor Kimani Wamatangi, who signed the deal on behalf of the county, urged the doctors to resume work and continue serving residents diligently.

“We believe that the purpose of a union is not contrary to that of a county government. As leaders, we should be allies to ensure the well-being of doctors and the people they serve,” said Wamatangi.

The prolonged strike had severely disrupted operations in all major hospitals and health centres across Kiambu, forcing patients to seek services in private facilities. Many healthcare workers had cited frustration over delayed promotions and lack of career progression, with some reportedly serving for over a decade without advancement.

Council of Governors Health Committee Chair Muthomi Njuki, who witnessed the signing, commended both parties for resolving the dispute amicably.

“We remain committed to defending the welfare of doctors as we work for the betterment of healthcare across all counties,” said Njuki.

With the signing of the deal, normalcy is expected to return to Kiambu’s public hospitals in the coming days. KMPDU officials have vowed to monitor the implementation of the agreement to ensure the county fulfills its commitments.