Kenya: Disruptions to medical services will likely persist nationwide through mid-April as unionized healthcare workers continue indefinite strike /update 1

Widespread disruptions to medical services will likely persist at least through mid-April as unionized healthcare workers continue an indefinite strike as of April 5. Medical service delays are being reported nationwide, including the closure of emergency services at the National Referral Hospital on March 21. The strike began on March 14 following a collapse in negotiations with the government over increasing human and financial resources in the sector. As of April 5, major unions, such as Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU), Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN), Kenya National Union of Medical Laboratory Officers (KNUMLO), Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO), Kenya Union of Nutritionists and Dietitians (KUND), Kenya Union of Pharmaceutical Technologists (KUPT), and specialist doctors have joined the strike.

Disruptions to healthcare services will likely continue, possibly affecting emergency services until the government meets the union's demand. 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.