The Nairobi City County Government has called on doctors and clinical officers to resume work within 12 hours, citing progress in addressing the issues that led to their ongoing strike, which has disrupted public health services across the city.
In a statement issued on Thursday, County Executive Committee Member for Health, Wellness and Nutrition Suzanne Silantoi said the county has been in continuous talks with health sector unions while implementing reforms aimed at improving conditions for healthcare staff.
Silantoi outlined that all health workers are now covered under the SHA Civil Servants medical scheme, promotions across common job groups have been processed, and a supplementary budget of Sh424 million has been set aside to clear pending promotions.
She also noted that over 98 per cent of staff are now confirmed on permanent and pensionable terms, with salaries and statutory deductions fully settled.
The county warned that those who fail to return to duty will face disciplinary measures and loss of pay, while assuring residents that public health facilities continue to operate.
“The Nairobi City County Government remains fully committed to resolving labour-related issues through dialogue, while ensuring that healthcare services continue uninterrupted for all Nairobi residents,” Silantoi said.
On the question of gratuity for periods served under the former Nairobi Metropolitan Services, the county said this responsibility rests with the National Government. However, it has pledged to settle gratuity for periods worked under the county and continues to work with national authorities to secure a lasting resolution.
The county also expressed concern over the politicisation of the strike, which it said has caused unnecessary interruptions to essential health services. Silantoi emphasized that while negotiations remain ongoing, the welfare of patients must come first.
“While we remain open to dialogue, the disruption of essential health services is unacceptable, and all health workers on strike are required to resume duty to safeguard the well-being of Nairobians,” she said.
Despite the industrial action, the county assured residents that medical care continues at all public facilities and encouraged the public to seek treatment without hesitation. The government reiterated its commitment to maintaining accessible, high-quality, and uninterrupted health services.
The strike, now entering its third week, has seen doctors withdraw services for 27 days, with clinical officers on strike for 23 days.
Doctors began the industrial action in mid-December over unpaid dues, while clinical officers demand clearance of salary arrears, implementation of a salary review, operationalisation of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, and permanent appointments for staff under the Universal Health Coverage programme.
