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The nurses’ union in Uasin Gishu has called off its strike following discussions with the county government.
The decision comes as President William Ruto visits the region on a two-day tour.
Union Secretary General Seth Panyako had earlier requested the President’s intervention.
Under the return-to-work agreement, the nurses’ immediate gain is the promise of promotions, effective February 1, 2025, with promotion letters expected by January 20, 2025.
“We have suspended the strike while we await the implementation of all our demands,” stated Klen Kimutai, the Nurses Union Secretary in Uasin Gishu.
A statement from Governor Jonathan Bii’s office confirmed that no nurse or union official would face victimization.
“The nurses will receive their salaries for December and January, alongside other employees,” the statement read.
The statement also emphasized that the nurses would return to work immediately, with both sides committing to improve service delivery. The government has also pledged to address ongoing issues impacting healthcare workers.
The nurses had been threatening to escalate their strike at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital to press for their demands.
In addition to the delayed Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) negotiations, the nurses were protesting delayed promotions and eight other grievances.
Kimutai noted that the issues include the county government’s failure to re-designate specialized nurses.
“We have submitted a list of nine grievances to the county government, which must be resolved following the suspension of the strike,” said Kimutai.
The county employs over 700 nurses, with 400 of them on permanent and pensionable contracts.
“We urge our members to return to work as we collaborate with the county to implement the agreed terms of the return-to-work formula,” Kimutai added.
Panyako had initially issued the strike notice on December 16 to both the county government and the Ministry of Health.
