Healthcare workers in Uasin Gishu County have intensified their strike action, taking to the streets of Eldoret as the labour dispute with the county government stretches into its 23rd day.
Representatives from various health unions staged demonstrations in Eldoret's Central Business District on Wednesday, pressing for the implementation of Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs), promotions for eligible staff, and the introduction of career progression guidelines. They also demand that Universal Health Coverage (UHC) workers be confirmed on permanent and pensionable terms.
Unresolved Grievances and County Response
Clinical Officer David Marthin highlighted the prolonged nature of the strike, noting that despite 23 days of industrial action, no resolution has been reached. He criticized the county's handling of devolved health services, pointing out that while other counties have implemented agreements with health workers, Uasin Gishu remains behind.
The health workers accused the county government of resorting to intimidation tactics rather than engaging in meaningful dialogue to address their concerns. Their demands focus primarily on employment terms, promotions, and honoring previously agreed-upon agreements.
Plans for Daily Protests
Marthin warned that if the county government does not act, protests will escalate to daily demonstrations on weekdays starting next week. The workers intend to maintain pressure with protests scheduled from Monday to Friday until their grievances are resolved.
Despite the strike, the unions expressed willingness to engage in negotiations, calling for concrete actions from county officials to end the stalemate.
Impact on Healthcare Services
The ongoing strike has severely disrupted healthcare delivery in public facilities across Uasin Gishu, with many centers currently non-operational. Residents have been affected as essential services remain unavailable amid the prolonged industrial action.
The unions continue to call for renewed talks with the County Government of Uasin Gishu to finalize and implement agreements, restore normal health services, and address workers’ demands.
