Tharaka Nithi County has promoted 21 medical consultants from Job Group Q to S, a long-awaited move that has been warmly welcomed by the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU).
KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Atellah confirmed the promotions, noting that 11 doctors received their promotion letters in May, while the remaining 10 are expected to receive theirs in June. This milestone follows the signing of the Return to Work Formula (RTWF) on May 8, 2025, and subsequent engagements between the union and the Council of Governors on April 25, 2025.
“What sets this achievement apart is the decisive and efficient leadership of Governor Muthomi Njuki, who bypassed unnecessary bureaucracy no job advertisements, no interviews, just action,” said Dr. Atellah. He emphasized that this kind of swift and impactful leadership is essential for strengthening the healthcare system.
The union also drew comparisons with similar strides made by Governors Stephen Sang of Nandi and Mutahi Kahiga of Nyeri in 2023, who implemented promotions without delays. These examples, according to KMPDU, reflect a growing trend of county leaders taking proactive steps to support medical professionals.
KMPDU has urged other counties to emulate Tharaka Nithi’s approach, highlighting that timely promotions are critical to motivating doctors and enhancing the quality of healthcare services. “This is the kind of leadership our healthcare system needs one that respects, empowers, and uplifts the very professionals it depends on,” Dr. Atellah said. “When doctors are valued, healthcare delivery flourishes.”
The promotions mark a significant victory for the medical community in Tharaka Nithi, many of whom have waited years for career progression. The move is expected to boost morale among doctors and improve service delivery across county health facilities.
As Kenya continues to face challenges in the healthcare sector, such decisive action serves as a beacon of what is possible when political will meets professional advocacy. KMPDU has vowed to continue pushing for similar reforms in all 47 counties.
