The leadership of the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU), led by Secretary General Dr. Davji Atellah and Chairperson Dr. Abidan Mwachi, convened at Afya House for a crucial meeting with government officials. The discussions centered on pressing issues affecting the healthcare sector, including the delayed payment of intern doctors’ salaries and the implementation of the 2017 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

In February 2025, KMPDU issued a 30-day ultimatum regarding the payment discrepancies for intern doctors, emphasizing the government’s breach of the agreed-upon salary scale. Dr. Atellah highlighted that the proposed reduction in intern salaries from KSh 206,000 to KSh 70,000 was unacceptable and contradicted prior agreements.

The meeting aimed to foster constructive dialogue between KMPDU and government representatives to resolve these issues amicably and ensure the sustainability of healthcare services. Both parties acknowledged the importance of upholding agreements and maintaining a motivated healthcare workforce to deliver quality services to the public.

This development follows a series of engagements, including the Special Delegates Conference held in November 2024, where KMPDU addressed critical challenges such as internship delays and CBA arrears. The conference also highlighted the escalating mental health crisis among doctors, underscoring the need for comprehensive support systems within the healthcare sector.