SIAYA, Kenya — Clinical officers in Siaya County have called off their 21-day strike after signing a return-to-work agreement with the county government, paving the way for the resumption of healthcare services in public health facilities.
The agreement was reached following negotiations between officials of the Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) and the Siaya County Executive, led by County Secretary Elizabeth Adongo.
Under the newly signed Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), implementation of the agreed terms will begin in July.
KUCO Deputy Secretary General Austin Oduor said the deal resolves several long-standing financial and administrative concerns that had prompted the industrial action.
He said the county government had committed to paying risk allowances starting next month, alongside arrears dating back to June 2025.
Oduor thanked Siaya Governor James Orengo for securing the funds required to implement the agreement but cautioned that the union would monitor the July payroll to ensure all commitments are honoured.
“We will closely monitor the July pay slips to ensure the county implements every aspect of the agreement,” he said.
Among the key provisions of the agreement is the implementation of career progression guidelines by the Siaya County Public Service Board. Pending staff promotions and re-designations are expected to begin next month.
The county government has also agreed to establish a joint CBA implementation committee to oversee the execution of the agreement and address any outstanding labour issues.
Other commitments include resolving salary delays and processing personal numbers for union members, which had formed part of the grievances raised during the strike.
KUCO Siaya Branch Chairman Collins Omondi Ouma officially announced the suspension of the strike and directed all clinical officers to resume duty immediately.
KUCO National Trustee Wamalwa Simiyu thanked Siaya residents for their patience during the industrial action, acknowledging that patients had borne the greatest burden following the disruption of health services.