Public Health Services Paralyzed as Clinical Officers’ Strike Enters Third Week

By Bruno Aero Family Media Staff Writer

Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) National Chairman Peterson Wachira 

NAIROBI, Kenya — August 3, 2026 — Public health services across Kenya’s 47 counties remained disrupted on Monday as the nationwide strike by clinical officers entered its third week, with the union warning that the industrial action will continue until the government addresses longstanding grievances.

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Addressing journalists in Nairobi, Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) National Chairman Peterson Wachira said members would not resume duty until the government fully implements previous return-to-work agreements and resolves what the union termed persistent labour rights violations affecting clinical officers.

The strike, which began on July 20, 2026, has significantly affected operations in public hospitals and health centres, with outpatient clinics, maternity services, and diagnostic departments reporting reduced or halted services due to the absence of clinical officers.

Thousands of patients seeking medical attention have been forced to turn to private health facilities, while others have delayed treatment amid growing concerns over access to essential healthcare services.

KUCO accused the government of failing to honour commitments made in earlier negotiations, arguing that repeated delays in addressing their concerns have undermined healthcare delivery and strained relations between health workers and the authorities.

The union has called for urgent intervention to resolve the dispute, warning that the strike will continue until concrete steps are taken to address their demands.

The ongoing impasse has renewed debate over the sustainability of Kenya’s public healthcare system, with stakeholders urging both sides to return to negotiations to protect patients who rely on government facilities.