Relief at MTRH as Nurses’ Strike Ends After Weeks of Paralysis!
Dr. Kirwa also highlighted staffing challenges, noting that MTRH loses between 60 to 100 nurses annually to opportunities in Western countries,
MTRH CEO, Dr. Phillip Kirwa (left), signs a return-to-work agreement with KNUN representatives, officially bringing an end to the 15-day nurses' strike.
The Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) has officially signed a return-to-work agreement with the Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN), concluding the nurses’ strike that began on March 19, lasting slightly over two weeks.
Key Challenges Addressed
Daniel Osoro, KNUN Branch Secretary, highlighted the primary grievances leading to the industrial action:
• Inadequate medical cover
• Delayed remittance of statutory deductions, including loans, pensions, and SACCO contributions
• Lack of promotions as outlined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA)
Financial Constraints and Budgetary Allocations
MTRH CEO, Dr. Phillip Kirwa, acknowledged that the institution has faced significant challenges due to budget cuts exceeding Ksh 2 billion. He expressed optimism that the recent allocation of Ksh 1 billion in the supplementary budget will address approximately 70% of these issues, including promotions, CBA implementation, timely remittance of deductions, and enhancement of medical cover.
“With the supplementary budget, all third-party deductions will be paid within the agreed time once we receive the Ksh 1 billion anytime soon. We are also enhancing internal resource generation through SHA, which has been paying on time. However, we will work to engage the government for more support,” stated Dr. Kirwa.
Staffing Challenges and Migration of Nurses
Dr. Kirwa also highlighted staffing challenges, noting that MTRH loses between 60 to 100 nurses annually to opportunities in Western countries, including the USA. This trend is reflective of a broader national issue. According to the Nursing Council of Kenya, more than 800 nurses leave the country every year to seek employment abroad, primarily in the United States, leading to a significant shortage in local hospitals.
Impact on Healthcare Services
The recent strike had a profound impact on the public, with thousands of Kenyans relying on MTRH—the nation’s second-largest referral hospital—for medical care and services. The resolution of the strike is anticipated to restore normalcy and improve healthcare delivery at the facility.
The challenges faced by MTRH underscore the need for sustained investment in the healthcare sector to ensure the retention of skilled professionals and the delivery of quality healthcare services to the Kenyan population.
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