Duale initiates move to end fallout with governors over absorption of UHC staff

Cynthia Lodite 02nd September, 2025 01:10 PM

Ministry of Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has convened a strategic meeting with the Council of Governors in a move to discuss the fate of the Universal Health Coverage staff.

In a statement released by the Ministry of Health on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, the Ministry has outlined that the discussion is focused on the transition of the newly confirmed UHC staff in the Ministry of Health.

“Happening now, Strategic Engagement on UHC Workforce Transition: Health Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale is attending a high-level engagement with the Council of Governors (CoG),” MOH stated.

Likewise, the meeting, which is being chaired by Wajir Governor and CoG Chairperson Ahmed Abdullahi, is set to highlight how the Ministry will oversee the transition of Universal Health Coverage staff into permanent and pensionable schemes.

“Chaired by Wajir Governor and CoG Chairperson H.E. Ahmed Abdullahi, to advance discussions on the transition of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) staff into permanent and pensionable schemes,” MOH noted.

Ministry of Health officials were present during the meeting.PHOTO/@MOH-Kenya/X

Health career guidelines call

According to the Ministry of Health, the strategic engagement meeting provides a platform for consultation with the Public Service Commission (PSC) on the development of career guidelines.

“The meeting also provides a platform for consultation with the Public Service Commission (PSC) on the development of career guidelines for the health sector—a critical step in strengthening Kenya’s healthcare system and safeguarding the future of the health workforce,” MOH said.

Meanwhile, the Health CS is joined by senior health officials, including SHA’s CEO, PS Medical Services, PS Public Health and Professional Standards, and CEO of the Digital Health Agency (DHA).

“The CS is joined by senior officials, including Dr. Ouma Oluga, PS Medical Services; Ms. Mary Muthoni, PS Public Health and Professional Standards; Dr. Mercy Mwangangi, CEO, Social Health Authority (SHA); and Eng. Anthony Lenayara, CEO, Digital Health Agency (DHA),” MOH said.

Governors’ demands

The meeting followed a critical meeting by the Council of Governors (CoG), where they accused the Ministry of Health of attempting to shift blame to counties over delays in absorbing staff under the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) program.

In a statement issued after an extraordinary council meeting on September 1, CoG chairperson Ahmed Abdullahi said counties remain committed to strengthening healthcare delivery but will only take over UHC staff once adequate resources are provided.

“The Ministry cannot alter the contracts of UHC staff without the involvement of county governments. Counties are amenable to employing the verified staff once resources are duly provided and previous obligations settled,” Abdullahi said.