Kenya has launched its largest-ever deployment of health interns, with thousands reporting to hospitals nationwide as part of efforts to boost the country’s healthcare workforce under the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) programme.

A total of 6,484 interns have been assigned to accredited health facilities across the country for one year of supervised clinical training.

The group includes 1,147 medical officers, 87 dental interns, 500 pharmacy interns, 659 BSc clinical officers, 1,993 diploma-level clinical officers, and 2,098 BSc nurses.

In a statement dated June 27, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale called the deployment a landmark step in reinforcing Kenya’s health system. He urged pre-interns to collect their posting letters promptly to facilitate smooth onboarding.

“This move reflects our firm commitment to strengthening the health workforce and ensuring timely internship placements,” said Duale.

The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) celebrated the development as a historic milestone the first time the government has posted more than 6,000 interns in a single cycle.

“This is a win for Kenyans who deserve quality, timely care, and for over 2,000 doctors who have trained tirelessly for this opportunity,” read the union’s statement.

KMPDU also applauded CS Duale for fulfilling the promises made in the April 10 agreement and acknowledged President William Ruto’s leadership in unlocking the long-awaited placements.

Intern doctors are currently earning Sh206,000, as stipulated in the 2017 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

Although the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) proposed a lower figure of Sh70,000, the Ministry of Health and KMPDU have upheld the current rates pending ongoing consultations.

While appearing before the Senate Health Committee, CS Duale admitted that intern pay remains a sensitive issue but affirmed that discussions are underway with the President, Treasury, and Council of Governors to reach a balanced and sustainable resolution.

“The concern is around the Sh206,000. Interns completing in July are earning this amount,” Duale told senators, expressing optimism that an agreement will be found to avoid disruption in the sector.

KMPDU Secretary General Dr Davji Atellah reiterated the union’s demand that intern remuneration be guided strictly by the existing 2017 CBA, even as the newly deployed interns begin their duties.