The Ministry of Health has disbursed Ksh965 million to clear outstanding arrears and current monthly stipends for intern medical officers, nurses, clinical officers, and pharmacists across Kenya.
Health CS Deborah Barasa made the announcement on Saturday, November 30, highlighting the government’s commitment to supporting healthcare professionals at the start of their careers.
From the allocated funds, Ksh528 million settled salary arrears for nurses and clinical officers, while Ksh110 million covered November salaries for the same groups.
An additional Ksh326 million addressed arrears for medical officers, dental officers, and pharmacists.
Ministry of Health CS Barasa emphasized the ministry’s dedication to healthcare workers’ welfare, calling timely payment a vital step in bridging theory and practice through internships.
“Internship programs are critical to Kenya’s healthcare system,” she stated, affirming the goal of creating a conducive environment for professional growth and enhancing patient care quality.
The announcement comes amid growing concern over medical interns struggling with financial hardship. Several interns reportedly faced severe distress, with some taking their own lives due to delayed payments.
Barasa acknowledged these tragedies and commended interns for their resilience in challenging circumstances.
She vowed to meet with the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) to finalize Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) aimed at further safeguarding interns’ rights and working conditions.
This payment is seen as a pivotal move in advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and strengthening Kenya’s health sector.
