Kenya: Unioznied healthcare workers plan nationwide strike from March 14

Members of the Kenya Medical Practitioners Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) plan to go on an indefinite nationwide strike from March 14. The announcement follows a collapse in negotiations with the government over increasing human and financial resources in the sector. Other health unions, including the Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO), the Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN), and the Kenya Union of Nutritionists and Dietitians, have reportedly also threatened to join the strike.

Disruptions to healthcare services are likely, although emergency services are unlikely to be affected. Related protests are possible near hospitals, medical facilities, and government buildings. Occasional scuffles with security services are possible should protests occur. Disruptions could persist following the conclusion of the strike as medical facilities deal with a backlog of patients.