The Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) has called off its nationwide strike following successful negotiations with the Ministry of Health, led by Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Barasa
The strike, which began on February 18, lasted three weeks as clinical officers pushed for their inclusion in the Social Health Authority (SHA) system and the enforcement of their long-pending Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) dating back to 2017.
Among their key demands were the unconditional recognition and empanelment of health providers and practitioners licensed by the Clinical Officers Council, as well as the reinstatement of pre-authorization rights for clinical officers, including specialists, by the SHA board.
“Over the past few weeks, our clinical officers and the Ministry of Health have engaged in extensive and progressive consultations with all relevant stakeholders in a bid to find an amicable resolution to the issues at hand,” CS Barasa said in a statement on Wednesday.
She assured that the government remains committed to addressing the concerns of clinical officers while ensuring uninterrupted healthcare services for all Kenyans.
“Constructive engagement and collaboration remain the best ways to approach our resolve to address challenges we face currently and achieve sustainable solutions in the health sector,” she added.
The Health CS further lauded clinical officers for agreeing to return to work immediately and urged them to remain dedicated to building a resilient and patient-centered healthcare system that guarantees quality and affordable care for all Kenyans.
