Relief as KNH nurses’ strike called off after negotiations

The strike by nurses at the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) which began on Monday has been officially called off following a breakthrough in negotiations between the hospital management and the Kenya National Union of Nurses and Midwives.

Announcing the resolution on Tuesday evening, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said the agreement was reached after “hours of intensive and constructive negotiations” between the two sides.

“On behalf of the Ministry of Health, I wish to sincerely thank both negotiating teams for demonstrating goodwill, professionalism, and a shared commitment to resolving the issues at hand,” Duale said.

He added that the willingness by both parties “to come to the table, engage candidly, and expedite the process has led to an agreed return-to-work formula that addresses key concerns raised by our nurses.”

The CS noted that the deal touches on several long-standing grievances that had triggered the industrial action, including improvements to medical cover, structured promotions, and measures to ease workload pressures.

He added that the agreement also outlines a plan for the progressive conversion of nurses on contract to permanent and pensionable terms.

“These are important steps toward strengthening staff welfare, motivation, and retention within our health system,” Duale said.

“I also wish to commend the Management of Kenyatta National Hospital for their openness, flexibility, and commitment to finding lasting solutions, while ensuring continuity of essential services during this period.”

With the dispute now settled, the government has urged nurses to resume duty immediately.

“As we move forward, the focus must now shift firmly to delivering quality, timely, and compassionate healthcare services to all Kenyans. I urge all nurses to resume duty promptly and continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and patient care that KNH is known for,” Duale stated.

The Ministry of Health says it will oversee the implementation of the agreement, with monitoring and engagement mechanisms already put in place to prevent future disruptions.

Duale assured the public that the government remains committed to strengthening the health workforce and improving service delivery across public health facilities.