VIHIGA: Nov 12, 2026
The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) held a consultative meeting with the Vihiga County Executive on 12 November 2026 at the Governor’s Boardroom to address outstanding issues relating to the implementation of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
The meeting followed the issuance of a 21-day strike notice over the County’s failure to implement the CBA basic salary adjustment. The engagement provided an opportunity for the Union and the County Executive to discuss outstanding doctors’ welfare concerns, establish areas of progress and agree on the next steps towards full implementation of the CBA.
County Commits to Implementing Basic Salary Adjustments
One of the key outcomes was the County’s commitment to implement the CBA basic salary adjustment in doctors’ payslips within November 2026.
However, the meeting did not reach an agreement on a payment plan for the outstanding CBA arrears, which the Union expects to be settled by December 2026. Consequently, the meeting was adjourned to Monday, 16 November 2026, to allow further engagement on the unresolved matters.
In the meantime, KMPDU will engage the relevant County Department to verify and reconcile the figures relating to the basic salary adjustments and outstanding arrears. This follows irregular amounts paid by the County in October 2026. The reconciliation is intended to establish accurate figures ahead of implementation and settlement.
Comprehensive CBA Implementation Plan Expected
The County is expected to present a comprehensive CBA implementation plan at the next meeting on 16 November 2026. The plan should provide clear timelines for addressing the outstanding matters affecting doctors’ welfare, including:
Payment of outstanding CBA arrears.
Implementation of promotions.
Recruitment and resolution of staffing gaps.
Provision of comprehensive medical cover.
Approval of pending study leave applications.
Establishment of car loan and mortgage schemes.
County-level meetings to deliberate on and agree to the 2025–2029 CBA.
The Union emphasised the importance of addressing these issues through a structured implementation framework with clear timelines and accountability.
High-Level County and Union Representation
The consultative meeting brought together senior representatives from the Vihiga County Executive and KMPDU Western Branch leadership.
The County Executive was represented by the County Secretary; County Executive Committee Members (CECMs) for Public Service, Health and Treasury; the Chief Officer for Health; the Chief Executive Officer of Vihiga Teaching and Referral Hospital (VTRH); a Public Service Board Commissioner; the Health Human Resources Officer; and a representative from the Director of Human Resources’ office.
KMPDU was represented by Dr Joseph Makomere, Western Branch Chairman; Dr Barbra Murila, Branch Treasurer; Senior Dr Koba; Dr Elly Lumwamu; and Dr Hillary Shivonje. Special thanks to the Branch Secretary, Dr Daniel Oluoch, who could not make it on the day, for his continued support.
Next Steps: Reconciliation and Continued Engagement
Ahead of the next meeting, KMPDU will work with the relevant County Department to reconcile the outstanding figures and establish the accurate amounts due to doctors. The County is expected to present its comprehensive CBA implementation plan when discussions resume on 16 November 2026.
While the commitment to implement the basic salary adjustment marks an important step, the outstanding arrears and other welfare concerns remain unresolved. KMPDU will continue to pursue their resolution through sustained engagement and firm advocacy.
The Union remains committed to securing the full implementation of the CBA, protecting members’ rights and ensuring that doctors in Vihiga County receive the remuneration, working conditions and welfare provisions to which they are entitled.
In solidarity,
Dr Sajoh Lubale Makomere
Chairman, KMPDU Western Branch
