UHC staff to move to permanent terms in 2026, says CS Duale
CS Duale outlined the plan, which includes transferring the payroll and budget responsibilities for UHC staff to county governments by July 1, 2025.
The Ministry of Health has announced that all Universal Health Coverage (UHC) staff will be transitioned to permanent and pensionable terms in the 2026/2027 financial year, once their current contracts come to an end.
In a detailed statement, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale outlined the plan, which includes transferring the payroll and budget responsibilities for UHC staff to county governments by July 1, 2025.
This move marks a major shift in the management of UHC services and staff.
"UHC staff contracts, as agreed between individual staff and county governments, will remain valid until May 2026 as per the signed agreements," Duale said on Tuesday
The Ministry confirmed that county administrations will officially take over the management of UHC personnel starting July 2025, and that gratuity payments will be made upon contract completion, based on guidelines set by the Public Service Commission.
The Health Ministry acknowledged the role of health sector unions in defending the interests of healthcare workers and contributing to quality service delivery across the country.
"We reaffirm our commitment to constructive engagement with stakeholders to uphold the integrity and sustainability of Universal Health Coverage in Kenya," Duale stated.
According to the Ministry, while the national government will continue focusing on policy, technical support, and referral hospitals, county governments will remain in charge of local health services, in line with the Constitution’s Fourth Schedule.
Ahead of the transition, the Ministry has held several consultations with relevant stakeholders to address staff concerns and clarify the process.
Among the key meetings was one held on April 14, co-chaired by the Council of Governors Chairperson, Governor Ahmed Abdullahi.
Another meeting on May 6 brought together Ministry officials, county representatives, healthcare unions, and UHC staff.
Union leaders present included Seth Panyako of the Kenya National Union of Nurses, George Gibore of the Kenya Union of Clinical Officers, Mohamed Duba of the Kenya Health Professionals Society and Brown Ashira of the Kenya Environmental Health and Public Health Practitioners Union.
Others are Odipo Nicholas of the Kenya National Union of Medical Laboratory Officers, Kennedy Inyagu of the Kenya Union of Nutritionists and Dietitians, and Asae Naempu of the Kenya National Union of Pharmaceutical Technologists.
To avoid delays, the Ministry urged the Council of Governors to fast-track the verification and submission of staff data for the May 2025 payroll.
"The Ministry of Health remains committed to the success of UHC and appreciates the invaluable contributions of UHC staff in delivering essential health services across the country," Duale said.
He added that the government will continue to work closely with all parties involved to protect the welfare of UHC workers and ensure uninterrupted healthcare services nationwide.
