Every doctor deserves to work in an environment that upholds dignity, respects labour rights, and enables the delivery of quality healthcare. Unfortunately, this is not the reality for doctors in Isiolo County.
KMPDU recently convened a Doctors’ Kamkunji in Isiolo, where members spoke candidly about the challenges they continue to face. Their testimonies painted a deeply concerning picture of a health system where longstanding labour violations, administrative failures, and workplace intimidation are compromising both the welfare of doctors and the quality of care available to patients.
Doctors reported years of delayed promotions that have stalled career progression and undermined professional morale. Many continue to work without medical cover, leaving healthcare professionals unable to access the very services they provide to others. Members also raised concerns over the persistent failure to remit statutory deductions, including pension contributions, Social Health Authority (SHA) deductions, PAYE, loan repayments, and SACCO contributions, exposing them to financial hardship and unnecessary uncertainty.
The Union also noted continued use of employment contracts that do not align with the provisions of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, alongside reports of political interference and workplace intimidation that threaten professional independence. These challenges are compounded by severe staffing shortages, including situations where a single surgeon is expected to remain on call around the clock, placing unsustainable pressure on both healthcare workers and the health system. Persistent salary delays have further deepened the burden on doctors and their families.
These are not isolated workplace grievances. They are systemic failures that affect the morale of healthcare workers, the stability of the workforce, and ultimately the quality of care delivered to the people of Isiolo.
Despite these challenges, the spirit of solidarity among doctors in Isiolo remains unwavering. Their resolve reflects the core values of KMPDU: dignity is not given, it is defended through unity, collective action, and principled advocacy.
The Union believes these conditions cannot be allowed to become the norm. Healthcare workers cannot continue serving under circumstances that undermine their rights, compromise their welfare, and threaten patient care.
In response, KMPDU has formally declared a trade dispute with the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection and has initiated legal proceedings citing the County Government for contempt of court over its failure to implement the Return-to-Work Formula of 8 May 2024. The Union has also commenced a lawful escalation process that may culminate in industrial action should the County fail to address these longstanding concerns.
KMPDU remains committed to constructive engagement, but dialogue must be accompanied by action. The Union will continue holding the County Government accountable until doctors receive the fair treatment, safe working conditions, and professional respect they deserve.
No doctor will be left behind. The time for Isiolo is now, and KMPDU will continue standing firm for justice, dignity, and a stronger healthcare system for every Kenyan.
