Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has stated that the Ministry of Health lacks the financial capacity to employ Universal Health Coverage (UHC) workers on permanent and pensionable terms. Speaking during a cultural festival in Garissa, Duale was responding to concerns raised by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi over the employment status of UHC workers.
Duale emphasized that only Ksh3.5 billion is currently available an amount sufficient to retain nurses on contract but not enough for permanent employment. He called on senators and Parliament to provide additional funding if they wish to see the workers absorbed permanently.
“The budget-making process is a function of Parliament,” Duale said. “The money for the national and county governments is allocated through the County Revenue Allocation Bill and the Division of Revenue Allocation Bill. If you give me Ksh4.2 billion, I will pay the UHC workers. If you don’t give me the money, let them demonstrate at the Senate and National Assembly.”
Duale’s remarks come amid growing frustration among contract UHC workers who have decried job insecurity and lack of benefits. He insisted that Parliament holds the key to resolving the issue by adjusting allocations during the budget process.
Additionally, the CS revealed a policy shift that will take effect from July 1, 2025. According to Duale, the payroll for nurses and other UHC staff hired under contract by county governments will be fully transferred to the counties.
“If you are a nurse and have a contract with the county government, you will be paid by that county government,” he said. “Governors are best placed to supervise performance since they are closer to service delivery.”
This move is aimed at improving accountability and efficiency, but it also signals a devolution of responsibility that could strain county budgets further if not supported with adequate funding from the national government.
The debate highlights the ongoing challenge of financing healthcare reforms under the Universal Health Coverage program, a key pillar of Kenya’s health agenda.
