CS Duale confirms absorption of 7,414 UHC staff
Duale explained the government’s commitment to strengthening human resources in the health sector, a key step towards delivering quality health services to all Kenyans under the UHC initiative.
The Ministry of Health has confirmed that the process of absorbing staff under the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) programme is largely complete, following a recent review of health workers across the country.
In a statement issued on Monday, August 25, 2025, Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening human resources in the health sector, a key step towards delivering quality health services to all Kenyans under the UHC initiative.
The review, which was carried out jointly by the State Department for Medical Services and the Council of Governors, aimed to verify the status of all UHC staff.
Out of 7,629 staff listed, 215 individuals did not appear for verification.
“These staff were identified as either non-existent “ghost workers” or not qualified health professionals. Their salaries have been stopped, and they have been removed from the payroll as investigations continue to recover any irregular payments and determine appropriate action,” read part of the statement.
The remaining 7,414 staff members have been categorized into two main groups, those actively serving and those with pending disciplinary cases. Staff in active service will be officially absorbed into the UHC programme starting September 2025, ensuring continuity of service for millions of Kenyans who rely on public health facilities.
CS Duale stated that staff with disciplinary issues or who are absent from duty will not be absorbed immediately.
These cases will be handled in consultation with the Public Service Commission, according to the Public Service Commission Regulations of 2020, which provide guidelines for staff separation, removal from payroll, and other disciplinary measures.
He reassured the public that the government is committed to transparency and fairness in the absorption process.
“We want to make sure that eligible health workers are recognized and properly integrated, while ensuring public resources are protected and managed responsibly,” he said.
The CS adds that the Health Ministry, together with the Council of Governors, the Public Service Commission, and other stakeholders, is determined to safeguard the rights of eligible staff while maintaining accountability in the absorption process.
The exercise forms part of the government’s broader commitment to reforming the health sector, strengthening public service efficiency, and achieving the goal of Universal Health Coverage for all Kenyans.
