Doctors End Strike, Resume in Elgeiyo Marakwer After Deal with County Government

Medical services are set to resume  in Elgeiyo Marakwer after doctors officially called off their strike following a successful round of negotiations with county authorities.

The agreement was reached between the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union and county officials after prolonged discussions aimed at resolving a looming industrial dispute that had threatened to disrupt healthcare services.

County leaders, including County Secretary Lazarus Chebii, Health CEC Monica Rotich, and Chief Officer Jeremiah Chirchir, led the negotiations that culminated in the return-to-work agreement.

Speaking after the signing, Rotich expressed optimism that the deal would restore normalcy in health facilities. “We have addressed most of the issues raised by the union, and we expect doctors to report back to duty tomorrow,” she said.

The union also confirmed the breakthrough, with KMPDU North Rift Secretary Kamonzi Mulei noting that both sides had reached a mutually beneficial resolution. “We’ve reached an amicable solution, and our doctors will resume work immediately,” he stated.

The strike had raised concerns among residents over access to essential medical services, with patients bearing the brunt of the standoff. The resolution now paves the way for the full restoration of healthcare operations in public facilities.

Both parties indicated that mechanisms had been put in place to address outstanding concerns and prevent future disruptions, signaling a renewed commitment to collaboration in strengthening the county’s health sector.