Nurses give SRC 7 days to sign CBAs or face nationwide strike

The Kenya National Union of Nurses and Midwives (KNUNM) Secretary General, Seth Panyako, has given the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) seven days to sign pending Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) or risk a nationwide strike. Speaking at a press conference, Panyako stated that the nurses' strike will continue until the outstanding CBA issues are resolved.

While some counties have already reached agreements with nurses and signed their portion of the CBAs, the process has stalled pending the SRC's letter of no objection. Panyako emphasized that the CBA is central to resolving the nurses' grievances, which include terms of service, salaries, allowances, and other employment benefits.

He warned that he is prepared to face legal consequences and contempt of court, jokingly suggesting court-imposed sentences such as prison if necessary. The union has been pushing for the implementation of the 2025-2029 CBA, alongside previous return-to-work agreements and improved terms of service. Additionally, the union is dealing with the transition of over 7,600 Universal Health Coverage (UHC) workers whose contracts expired on June 30, 2026.

Panyako questioned why counties, despite receiving Ksh428 billion in equitable share, have not yet issued appointment letters. Out of 47 counties, 35 are ready to issue the letters, while 12 are creating obstacles. The union has warned that further delays in resolving the CBA and UHC employment disputes could lead to more disruptions in public hospital services.