Machakos town was brought to a standstill as medics under the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) program staged a protest, decrying delayed salaries and job insecurity.
The healthcare workers
including nurses, clinicians, public health officers, and community health providers, accused the national government of failing to honour its promises despite their four years of dedicated service under contract.
UHC Machakos workers
They criticized the government for prioritizing the unstable Social Health Authority (SHA).
While failing to address their plight, leaving many Kenyans suffering from inadequate healthcare services.
In a fiery statement, the medics warned that if their grievances continue to be ignored,
they will mobilize Kenyans, including religious groups and Gen Z, to amplify their demands.
Their frustration also targeted President William Ruto
Questioning how he could donate Ksh 20 million to a church in Roysambu while healthcare workers struggle with delayed salaries and uncertain job security.
Dennis Kaloki, a medic under UHC called out the unfairness in the government’s employment policy.
Pointing out that interns are being absorbed into permanent positions while experienced UHC workers remain on contract.
The demonstrators presented their petition to multiple authorities,
including the Machakos County Assembly, the Human Rights department, the county headquarters, and the Machakos Health CECM office.
Dr. Daniel Katua, the Medical Superintendent at Machakos Level Five Hospital, acknowledged receipt of the petition
Additionally, he urged the medics to remain patient as their concerns are addressed.
Despite their profession, the medics lamented.
That they, too, are victims of Kenya’s ailing healthcare system, unable to access services due to the inefficiencies of SHA.
