In a historic first for Kenya’s healthcare sector, the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) hosted a sitting Cabinet Secretary for Health at its Annual Delegates Conference a development hailed by many in the profession as a “new dawn” in government-union relations.
Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale’s appearance marked a significant shift in the tone of engagement between the government and health workers. In his address, Duale emphasized that his participation was no accident, but a conscious move to signal a new era of collaboration.
“This is not a coincidence, it’s a statement,” he said.
“It is both an honour and a privilege to join you… We’ve made important strides through trust, dialogue, and partnership, and I reaffirm my dedication to walking this journey with you.”
Duale revealed that the government had already disbursed Ksh 1.75 billion in doctors’ salary arrears—part of the commitments outlined in the 2024 Return to Work Formula that followed a recent industrial standoff. He assured delegates that the outstanding balance would be cleared in the next fiscal year.
In another key announcement, the CS confirmed substantial investments in specialist medical education. A total of 93 doctors have received approval for tuition sponsorships totaling Ksh 142 million, with Ksh 73.8 million already disbursed to support the first group of 54 postgraduate students. Processing for the remaining 39 is currently underway.
“To ensure inclusivity, any doctor currently undertaking specialist training but omitted from the list is encouraged to submit their request,” Duale said.
Reaffirming the ministry’s broader commitment to healthcare reform, the Cabinet Secretary underscored the role of medical professionals in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). He described health workers as the “cornerstone” of the UHC agenda, stressing that building a competent and well-supported workforce is essential to its success.
