The Kenya National Union of Nurses and Midwives (KNUNM) has announced a seven-day strike notice, signaling that nurses and midwives nationwide will halt their services on July 29, 2026, unless the government resolves outstanding labor disputes.
General Secretary Seth Panyako communicated this decision to the Council of Governors, the Ministry of Health, the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), the Public Service Commission (PSC), and all 47 county governments.
In a letter dated July 22, 2026, KNUNM expressed that despite diligent efforts to negotiate solutions, the responses from the relevant authorities have not met their expectations.
Panyako emphasized, “We must highlight the unresolved grievances faced by our members, which our representatives have tirelessly worked to address without success.”
The union pointed out that some of these disputes have persisted for over a decade, prompting the decision to consider industrial action.
Key Issues Behind the Strike Threat
KNUNM identified five critical grievances that require immediate attention before the strike commences.
First, the organization highlighted the unfinalized negotiations for the 2025-2029 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) for nurses and midwives. This formal agreement outlines essential employment terms, including salaries, allowances, working conditions, and other benefits.
The union criticized the authorities for delaying the conclusion of these central negotiations, despite extensive discussions.
Second, the union called attention to the absence of an implementation framework for the 2017 Return-to-Work Agreement, which was established following a previous health workers’ strike. This agreement contains vital commitments for enhancing nurses’ welfare and working conditions.
KNUNM is demanding that the government provide a clear implementation matrix detailing how and when these agreed measures will be executed.
Additionally, the union raised concerns regarding Universal Health Coverage (UHC) nurses, who, despite receiving budget allocations from the National Treasury, remain without payroll placement or permanent employment letters.
The delays in absorbing UHC staff have left many health workers uncertain about their employment status.
Panyako stated, “We require that the issues outlined here be resolved within seven days from the date of this letter.”
Career Progression and Kisii Nurses’ Dispute
Moreover, KNUNM is advocating for the implementation of structured career guidelines for nursing personnel, which are essential for fostering professional growth, promotions, and progression within the nursing field.
The union argues that the lack of these guidelines has hindered nurses’ career advancement and motivation.
Another significant dispute involves the wrongful dismissal of 46 nurses by the Kisii County Government in 2021. KNUNM insists that these nurses were unjustly dismissed while on duty and demands their reinstatement.
Despite previous discussions with authorities, this dismissal issue remains unresolved.
If the strike proceeds, public health facilities across Kenya could face significant disruptions starting at midnight on July 29, 2026. Nurses, being the largest group of healthcare workers in many public facilities, provide essential services in county hospitals, referral hospitals, dispensaries, and specialized units.
A nationwide strike could potentially impact outpatient clinics, maternity services, routine procedures, and other vital healthcare services.
KNUNM has directed its branch officials nationwide to mobilize members in preparation for the planned industrial action, while also expressing a willingness to engage in dialogue. The union has made it clear that the strike will continue until all outstanding issues are satisfactorily addressed.
