Nairobi: The Embu County Government has allocated Sh140 million in the 2026/2027 financial year to confirm all Universal Health Coverage (UHC) healthcare workers into permanent and pensionable employment. County Chief Officer for Health Patrick Mukavi stated that the funds will also support the promotion of healthcare workers who have remained in the same job groups for several years without career progression.
According to Kenya News Agency, Mukavi expressed that the move aims to improve staff morale, enhance healthcare service delivery, and address recurring disputes and strikes by health workers over poor working conditions. He confirmed that the county has budgeted adequately for UHC workers and those stagnating in the same job groups.
Speaking during a medical camp at Runyenjes Level Four Hospital, Mukavi emphasized that confirming and promoting health workers would help resolve labor-related challenges in the sector. However, he clarified that the implementation depends on the approval of the county budget by the Embu County Assembly. He urged Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) to approve the budget to streamline healthcare services across the county.
During the medical camp, more than 700 patients received specialized services from a diverse team of doctors. The initiative was part of the Department of Health’s Madaktari Mashinani programme, which aims to bring specialized healthcare closer to residents. County Head of Primary Healthcare Dr. Mercy Wanjala highlighted that the programme, ongoing for two months, has reduced financial and geographical barriers to specialized care.
Dr. Wanjala noted that over 2,000 patients have benefited, receiving treatment for chronic conditions like cancer, hypertension, and diabetes. She mentioned plans to make the programme permanent to institutionalize access to specialized healthcare at the grassroots level, which would aid in early diagnosis, treatment, and management of health conditions, particularly in rural areas.
Mukavi reiterated that strengthening healthcare staffing and expanding access to medical services are key priorities for the county as it works towards achieving universal health coverage.
