Editor's Review

KUCO has called off its nationwide strike after reaching an agreement with the Ministry of Health and the Council of Governors.

The Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) has called off its nationwide strike after reaching an agreement with the Ministry of Health (MoH) and the Council of Governors (COG). 

The union has directed its members to resume duty within 24 hours following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Afya House.    

In an update on Wednesday, March 12, MoH said the agreement was signed in a high-level meeting led by Health CS Deborah Barasa and COG Chairman Governor Ahmed Abdullahi. 

In a separate statement, Barasa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting clinical officers and ensuring uninterrupted healthcare services.

She noted that the agreement marks a significant step toward improving healthcare policies, working conditions and service delivery.

"Today, I am pleased to announce that following productive discussions, the clinical officers’ strike has been called off following negotiations between the Ministry of Health and the leadership of our clinical workers’ caucus. 

"This marks a significant step in strengthening our healthcare system through dialogue and mutual understanding. The government remains committed to addressing the key concerns raised by our clinical officers while ensuring that the healthcare needs of all Kenyans are met without disruption," the statement read.

File image of Public Health PS Mary Muthoni during the signing of KUCO MoU with Ministry of Health and the Council of Governors 

Barasa called for constructive engagement and collaboration in implementing the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) under Taifa Care, urging clinical officers to remain actively involved in shaping policies that improve healthcare infrastructure.  

"As we advance towards the full realisation and implementation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) under Taifa Care, it is imperative that all healthcare workers—including clinical officers—remain actively engaged in shaping policies that improve working conditions, enhance service delivery, and strengthen our healthcare infrastructure. 

"Constructive engagement and collaboration remain the best ways to approach our resolve to address challenges we face currently and achieve sustainable solutions in the health sector," the statement added.

Barasa thanked all clinical officers who agreed to resume duty immediately and encouraged them to remain committed to delivering quality and affordable healthcare.

"I, therefore, thank all clinical officers who have willingly resolved to resume duty with immediate effect and urge them to continue working towards building a resilient, patient-centered healthcare system that guarantees quality and affordable care for all Kenyans. 

"My Ministry remains open to ensuring that the needs of both healthcare workers and the public are met and/or addressed in a timely manner," the statement further read.