KMPDU, Machakos County in Fresh Push to Enforce Return-to-Work Deal

By : Mweru Mbugua 

The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has renewed talks with the Machakos County Government in an effort to fast-track implementation of the Return-to-Work Formula (RTWF) previously agreed upon by both parties

In a statement on Tuesday, KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Atellah said union officials from the Lower Eastern branch led by Chairman Dr. Charles Okumu met senior county administrators to review outstanding commitments tied to doctors’ welfare, career progression and workplace conditions

According to the union, the county has pledged to complete long-pending promotions for medical staff within 30 days

The plan includes elevating doctors to the next job group and issuing an internal call for applications for specialist roles

Dr. Atellah further noted that the county committed to settling due promotions for common cadres and paying arrears from their effective dates

“Specialists are to be promoted effective July 1, 2025,” he said

KMPDU also confirmed that the county’s medical insurance cover will proceed without interruption, with the Jubilee Insurance contract set for renewal on Wednesday

Despite progress on several fronts, some concerns persist. Social Health Authority (SHA) remittances remain outstanding, and Dr. Atellah said contempt proceedings related to the earlier RTWF agreement will continue even as negotiations advance. “Engagement continues to ensure full compliance,” he stated

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The union reaffirmed its resolve to push counties to fully honour agreements affecting healthcare workers

“As a union, we shall leave no stone unturned in pursuit of our members’ welfare,” Dr. Atellah emphasized

The Machakos talks form part of KMPDU’s broader national efforts to compel compliance with signed agreements across devolved health units