Govt Allocates Sh2.4B For Medical Interns, Urges KMPDU To Call Off Strike

The government has urged the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU) to end the ongoing strike by medical professionals following the allocation of Sh2.4 billion for the deployment of medical interns.

Head of Public Service Felix Koskei said the government has secured Sh2.4 billion to facilitate the immediate deployment of the 2023/24 cohort of medical student interns, as per the guidelines set by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC).

“In light of this development, the leadership of the KMPDU is urged to adhere to its obligations as outlined in the Court’s Orders by promptly suspending the ongoing industrial action,” Koskei said in a statement Tuesday.

The strike, which commenced in March, has severely disrupted operations in public hospitals nationwide as doctors demand the deployment of medical interns and appropriate remuneration for them.

Koskei disclosed that the government will offer grants and scholarships to eligible postgraduate medical officers.

“In this regard, all eligible medical student interns are encouraged to collect their posting letters from the Ministry of Health’s offices starting from Thursday, 4th April, 2024,” he added.

Koskei reiterated the commitment of both the government and its agencies, as well as institutional stakeholders, to resolving the ongoing dispute and putting an end to the cycle of industrial action in the Health Sector.

The priority, he said, remains fostering constructive dialogue, addressing concerns, and ensuring the health and well-being of all Kenyans.