The Nairobi County Government has presented a detailed defence of its approach to addressing grievances raised by health workers, telling the County Assembly Health Committee that most union concerns have either been resolved or are in advanced stages of implementation. The position was outlined by Suzanne Silantoi, the county health executive, who detailed the interventions taken to resolve key issues affecting health practitioners.
County Highlights Progress on Health Worker Issues
According to the county, over eight major concerns raised by health workers have been substantively addressed. These include:
- Functionality of the medical insurance scheme
- Pending gratuity payments
- Delayed promotions
- Issuance of confirmation letters
- Salary arrears for consultants
- Previously withheld salaries
On the matter of medical insurance, Silantoi confirmed that the scheme is now fully operational, with the county remitting monthly Social Health Authority (SHA) contributions and timely quarterly payments. She emphasised that these steps reflect tangible progress, even as some staff continue to strike.
Promotions and Financial Realities
While many issues have been addressed, promotions remain a key outstanding concern. The county noted that fiscal constraints must guide the implementation of promotions to ensure long-term sustainability. Nairobi’s health sector wage bill currently stands at approximately Sh8 billion, and implementing all proposed promotions could inflate it by up to 150%, potentially breaching public finance regulations.
Promotions for common cadres from Job Groups M to N and N to P will be completed by June 30. However, they must be executed in a structured manner to comply with approved wage limits and safeguard health service sustainability
Suzanne SilantoiCall for Dialogue and Resumption of Services
The county reiterated its commitment to ongoing dialogue with all unions and assured health workers that participation in industrial action would not lead to victimisation. City Hall urged staff to resume duties while remaining concerns are addressed. Authorities also highlighted the constitutional duty to protect access to healthcare services for Nairobi residents, warning that prolonged strikes could compromise service delivery, especially for vulnerable populations.
