MERU, December 11, 2025
KMPDU today held a decisive and constructive engagement with the Meru County Government, meeting the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health and the County Director of Health to review progress in strengthening the health workforce and advancing the welfare of doctors serving in the county.
The meeting focused on tangible outcomes, accountability, and forward planning to ensure that healthcare workers are supported and patients receive quality, timely services. The County leadership outlined key commitments that signal strong political will and a shared understanding that a motivated workforce is central to an effective health system.
Meru County has allocated KES 121 million specifically for the promotion and recruitment of health practitioners, positioning itself among counties taking deliberate steps to address staffing gaps and career stagnation. Notably, Meru is among the first counties to implement the Public Service Commission (PSC) 17-tier job group restructuring, providing clarity on career progression, with entry at Job Group N and consultants progressing up to Job Group R.
The County further confirmed that there have been no salary delays in recent months, reflecting improved payroll stability. A long-standing concern regarding Dr. Wendo’s delayed promotion was addressed, with the County committing to issue the promotion immediately and backdate it to 2021, correcting a prolonged injustice.
Medical cover concerns raised by the union were acknowledged, with assurances that any emerging issues will be addressed promptly to safeguard doctors and their families. On employment, the County shared a detailed breakdown of the KES 121 million recruitment and promotion budget, which will support the hiring of:
13 Medical Officers
2 Physicians
1 Pathologist
1 Oncologist
1 Anesthesiologist
1 Neurosurgeon
4 Pharmacists
5 Dentists
The County confirmed that adverts for these positions will be published in December, and both parties agreed that no doctor will be denied promotion, with doctors currently on contract being prioritized for confirmation to Permanent and Pensionable (PnP) terms.
KMPDU appreciates the constructive partnership demonstrated by the Meru County leadership and reiterates its commitment to continued engagement to ensure these commitments are fully implemented. When counties invest in doctors, healthcare delivery improves, and communities benefit.
Solidarity in action. Strong doctors. Strong health systems.
