The government has pledged to resolve issues raised by doctors amid a planned nationwide strike set to begin on December 22. Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni called on medics to comply with a court order and engage in dialogue during the 90-day negotiation period granted by the court.
Muthoni assured that efforts are underway to address doctors’ concerns, emphasizing the need for productive discussions. She expressed regret over the potential suffering of patients if doctors proceed with the strike, especially during the festive season.
Meanwhile, Kenya Medical Practitioners Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) Secretary General Davji Atellah directed hospitals to begin discharging patients from December 19 in preparation for the strike. He specifically mentioned major facilities such as Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Kenyatta National Hospital, and Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral, and Research Hospital. Atellah stressed that the government must take responsibility for patient care during the industrial action.
Separately, PS Muthoni reported a new Mpox virus case in Mombasa County, bringing the national total to 29 cases. Of these, 18 have been treated and discharged, while 10 remain hospitalized.
She reassured the public that surveillance and screening at border points and highways have been intensified to prevent further spread, particularly during the festive season. Additionally, Muthoni urged Kenyans to enroll in the Social Health Insurance scheme and parents to register their children ahead of school reopening.
