NAIROBI: Public sector unions in Kenya have called off a planned strike after reaching an agreement with the government over the contentious implementation of the Social Health Authority (SHA). Initially, over ten workers’ unions, primarily representing civil servants, had announced a 14-day strike notice on October 8, 2024, to protest issues related to the transition from the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the SHA.
According to Kenya News Agency, the strike was called off following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the government and union representatives. The agreement was signed by Cabinet Secretaries Justin Muturi (Public Service and Human Capital Development), Dr. Alfred Mutua (Labour and Social Protection), and Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa (Health), along with Tom Ondege, Secretary General of the Union of Kenya Civil Servants. The resolution ensures the extension of the comprehensive medical insurance scheme for public servants through the SHA until November 21, 2024,
and guarantees seamless access to benefits beyond that date.
The agreement includes the formation of an Ad Hoc working committee tasked with reviewing legal provisions and regulations to maintain the status quo. The committee will be chaired by David William Okoth Ochiel, Director of Human Resource Management and Development at the State Department of Public Service, and will include representatives from various government departments and the union. The committee is expected to present its report within 21 days.
The Ministry of Public Service has been directed to ensure a smooth transition of NHIF staff to the SHA, with assurances that there will be no job losses or loss of accrued benefits. The government also committed to addressing concerns about increased contributions without improved benefits, with proposals expected within the set timelines. The unions have agreed to suspend the industrial action notice as a result.
During the signing ceremony, CS Muturi emphasized the government’s commitment to add
ressing transition issues, commending the parties involved for reaching a consensus. He highlighted improvements in the medical scheme benefits and reassured that the government would honour the existing Collective Bargaining Agreement with the Union of Kenya Civil Servants, which expires in mid-2025.
CS Mutua lauded the union leadership for embracing consultations over confrontation, while CS Barasa guaranteed uninterrupted healthcare access during the transition. Secretary General Ondege expressed satisfaction with the government’s response to union concerns, urging continued collaboration between unions and the government to ensure a unified approach in serving Kenyan civil servants.
The resolution marks a significant step in resolving ongoing issues and restoring confidence among union members, with union leaders expressing hope that the government’s efforts will ensure comprehensive medical coverage for all civil servants.