Uasin Gishu Hosts Key Public Forum on Proposed National Health Workforce Policy

The Government of Kenya has intensified efforts to reform the health sector through the proposed *Kenya Healthcare Professionals Policy 2026*, with a major public participation forum scheduled in Uasin Gishu on April 15 and 16.

The draft policy, spearheaded by the Ministry of Health, aims to tackle longstanding challenges affecting the country’s health workforce, including staffing shortages, uneven distribution of personnel, and gaps in training and retention.

According to officials, the framework outlines a coordinated national strategy to strengthen governance in the health sector, improve professional training standards, and enhance workforce planning and financing. It also proposes mechanisms to ensure equitable deployment of healthcare workers across both urban and rural areas, while addressing the growing concern over migration of skilled professionals abroad.

Speaking during a courtesy call ahead of the forum, Uasin Gishu Chief Officer for Clinical Services Ambrose Tarus underscored the importance of stakeholder engagement in shaping the policy.

> “This policy comes at a critical time when counties are facing real challenges in staffing, distribution, and retention of healthcare professionals. As Uasin Gishu, we are honored to host this engagement and provide a platform for stakeholders to share their views,” he said.

Tarus noted that incorporating feedback from healthcare workers and local administrators would help ensure the policy is both practical and responsive to realities on the ground.

Also present was Martin Muli, Director of Professional Standards at the Ministry of Health, who is leading the national stakeholder engagement process.

The Uasin Gishu forum is expected to bring together healthcare professionals, policymakers, and administrators from across the North Rift region. Participants will have the opportunity to submit their views and recommendations before the policy is finalized.

Officials say the outcome of these consultations will play a critical role in strengthening healthcare delivery and ensuring that reforms benefit all Kenyans.