Public sector unions call off strike over NHIF-SHA transition after agreement with Gov't

The agreement was signed at Harambee House, Nairobi, with Cabinet Secretaries Justin Muturi (Public Service), Alfred Mutua (Labour), and Debra Mulongo Barasa (Health) present.

“It is not in our interest to call strikes, but we do so to make the employer respond to our concerns,” said Union of Kenya Civil Servants Secretary-General Tom Odege. “The government has now responded, and we are therefore calling off the strike.”

The unions had issued a 14-day strike notice on October 8, 2024, raising concerns over the shift from NHIF to SHA. Key grievances included the absence of a comprehensive medical cover for public servants, uncertainty about the future of NHIF employees, and an increase in monthly contributions to 2.75% of gross salaries without improved benefits.

The Ministry of Public Service also agreed to extend the existing medical insurance scheme for public servants under SHA until November 21, 2024. Public servants are also assured uninterrupted access to health services beyond this period.

An ad-hoc committee will also be formed to ensure a smooth transition for NHIF employees, in compliance with the Social Health Insurance Act (2023), the Employment Act (2007), the Labour Relations Act, and collective bargaining agreements. The agreement also suspends any legal actions related to the transition, with both parties committing to good faith negotiations.

Public Service CS Justin Muturi expressed gratitude to the unions for their cooperation, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring uninterrupted medical services.

“We will work with everyone involved to ensure that all civil servants entitled to a medical cover receive seamless service delivery,” Muturi said. He also urged the SHA leadership to address any challenges encountered during the transition from NHIF.

Labour CS Alfred Mutua encouraged unions to pursue dialogue before resorting to strikes. “Before calling a strike, I urge unions to declare a dispute and engage in negotiations. Issues can be resolved amicably. I will listen and act as an intermediary between employers and employees,” Mutua said.

Health CS Debra Barasa assured Kenyans of the government’s dedication to affordable, efficient, and accessible healthcare under SHA.

The Social Health Insurance Act (2023) establishes several funds under SHA to improve healthcare delivery: the Primary Health Care Fund, which provides free treatment for patients registered under SHA at dispensaries and health centres; the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), offering paid members enhanced outpatient, inpatient, and emergency care, along with support for critical illnesses and major surgeries; and the Emergency, Chronic, and Critical Illness Fund, which covers serious conditions such as cancer, kidney disease requiring dialysis, severe high blood pressure, and diabetes.

The unions that signed the agreement include the Union of Kenya Civil Servants, the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU), the Kenya National Union of Nurses and Midwives, and other organizations representing clinical officers, nutritionists, laboratory officers, and county government workers.