NAIROBI – July 7, 2026
The strongest partnerships are often not defined by public recognition or ceremonial moments, but by a shared commitment to purpose, impact, and long-term institutional growth.
This week, the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) joined the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) Kenya at the Sarova Stanley, Nairobi, to celebrate the leadership and contributions of outgoing Country Director Bastian Schulz and to welcome Florian Koch as the new Country Director of FES Kenya.
The occasion provided an opportunity to reflect on a partnership that has played a significant role in strengthening trade union leadership, advancing social justice, and supporting the growth of KMPDU as a modern, responsive, and forward-looking union.
Over the years, the collaboration between KMPDU and FES Kenya has contributed to important milestones in the Union’s development. Together, the two institutions have supported the formulation of the KMPDU Strategic Plan 2025–2029, providing a framework to guide the Union’s vision, priorities, and long-term growth.
The partnership has also invested significantly in leadership development. Through programmes such as the Global Labour University (GLU), the Promoting Leadership and Governance Programme (PLGP), and the Global Trade Unionism and Society (GOTUS) initiative, KMPDU leaders have gained valuable opportunities to strengthen their skills in labour relations, governance, advocacy, and organizational leadership.
A key achievement of the partnership has been its commitment to expanding opportunities for emerging leaders while advancing gender equity within the labour movement. Through deliberate support for inclusive leadership development, more women have assumed leadership positions within KMPDU, contributing to stronger representation and broader participation in decision-making processes.
Beyond leadership development, the partnership has supported research and policy advocacy initiatives that continue to shape conversations around healthcare, labour rights, and social protection. These efforts have reinforced KMPDU’s role as an influential voice on issues affecting healthcare workers and the health sector more broadly.
The collaboration has also extended beyond Kenya’s borders. Among its notable contributions has been support for Dr. Mercy Nabwire’s appointment as Lead Consultant for the Germany–Kenya Bilateral Labour Agreement process, as well as participation in pioneering research examining the impact of climate change on public health systems and workforce resilience.
As one chapter closes and another begins, KMPDU extends its sincere appreciation to Bastian Schulz for his friendship, partnership, and steadfast commitment to strengthening Kenya’s labour movement. His tenure has left a lasting impact on institutions, leaders, and initiatives that will continue to benefit workers for years to come.
The Union also warmly welcomes Florian Koch as he assumes leadership of FES Kenya and looks forward to building on the strong foundation already established. The shared commitment to advancing decent work, social justice, democratic participation, strong unions, and quality healthcare remains as important today as ever.
Strong institutions are built through relationships that endure beyond individual tenures. They are sustained by shared values, mutual respect, and a collective commitment to leaving systems stronger than they were found.
The partnership between KMPDU and FES Kenya reflects exactly that vision—one that continues to strengthen workers, empower leaders, and advance a more just and equitable society for all.
