KMPDU Threatens Doctors’ Strike Over Prolonged Nurses’ Dispute

Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) Secretary-General Dr Davji Bhimji Atellah has warned of a potential doctors' strike if the government does not resolve the ongoing nurses' dispute within seven days. Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, September 7, 2026, Atellah stated that the prolonged nurses' strike has severely impacted healthcare services, putting additional pressure on doctors in public hospitals.

Atellah emphasized that nurses have been on strike for over 40 days, resulting in a bare minimum capacity in public hospitals. He warned that this disruption risks patient safety, particularly for children and mothers requiring specialized care. The KMPDU leader accused the government of failing to address the nurses' grievances, which have been known since the 2017 Return-to-Work Formula.

Atellah suggested that many of the issues should be honored as court orders. He also noted that the ongoing nurses' strike affects doctors, who are working in challenging conditions due to a shortage of medical professionals in public facilities. Atellah gave the government seven days to resolve the nurses' dispute or face industrial action by doctors.

He expressed concern over unresolved issues affecting doctors, such as adjustments to payslips, which were promised in August but have yet to be implemented. Atellah urged monitoring the government's response and continued advocacy for the implementation of health workers' agreements.