NAIROBI, Kenya – The Ministry of Health has announced plans to formally absorb over 7,400 staff under the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) programme, following a nationwide audit that exposed hundreds of ghost workers and unqualified personnel.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said the verification exercise, carried out in collaboration with the Council of Governors (CoG) and the State Department for Medical Services, revealed major irregularities in the UHC payroll.
Out of 7,629 staff reviewed, 215 were flagged for failing to report for verification, while others were found to be either non-existent, ghost workers, or lacking the required qualifications.
These individuals have been struck off the payroll as the ministry pursues further investigations to recover irregular payments.
“The remaining 7,414 staff will be absorbed in two categories – those already in active service and those with pending disciplinary issues,” Duale said in a statement. “Staff in active service will be formally transitioned into the public service from September 2025.”
However, the ministry made it clear that employees with serious disciplinary cases or records of absenteeism will not be absorbed.
Their cases will be dealt with in line with Public Service Commission (PSC) regulations, which allow for suspension, removal from the payroll, or other disciplinary measures.
Duale underscored the government’s commitment to accountability and transparency in the health sector, noting that the audit was crucial to ending wastage and ensuring only qualified staff remain on the payroll.
“The Ministry of Health, together with the Council of Governors, PSC and other stakeholders, stands steadfast in its resolve to uphold fairness and integrity in staff absorption,” Duale said.
The CS added that the process is part of the government’s broader strategy to strengthen human resources for health, eliminate inefficiencies, and advance Kenya’s pledge to achieve Universal Health Coverage for all citizens.
