The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has formally joined the transition process at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) after signing a recognition agreement with the hospital’s management.
The agreement positions the union as a key stakeholder in the transition.
It is expected to benefit unionised doctors while strengthening JOOTRH’s ability to negotiate improved remuneration and address staffing gaps as its mandate expands to national referral status.
The recognition pact was signed by KMPDU Secretary-General Dr Davji Bhimji Atellah and JOOTRH Chief Executive Officer Dr Joshua Clinton Okise.
The agreement creates a structured platform for engagement and consultation on labour relations during the transition period.
During the discussions, the union sought clarity on the fate of doctors currently engaged on locum contracts.
KMPDU pushed for their absorption into permanent and pensionable positions once the human resource transition is completed.
Dr Atellah said job security is critical to the stability and effective functioning of a national referral hospital.
In response, Dr Okise said the hospital is awaiting the completion of job evaluation and grading by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) and other relevant authorities.
He said once the grading process is concluded, JOOTRH will have a clear framework for its staffing requirements.
Dr Okise noted that the outcome will also guide the recruitment of additional doctors and specialists in line with national standards.
He commended the commitment of doctors currently serving at the facility, acknowledging their role in supporting the hospital’s growth during the transition phase.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Dr Atellah described the agreement as a key milestone, noting that JOOTRH is the first county hospital to be upgraded to a national referral institution.
He said the union is keen to support the hospital’s success as a model for other regional facilities earmarked for elevation.
Dr Atellah reaffirmed KMPDU’s commitment to working closely with hospital management to address critical issues.
These include adequate staffing, improved infrastructure such as fully functional theatres, reliable access to essential medicines, and enhanced service delivery through improved staff welfare.
Under the agreement, both parties committed to concluding a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) within 120 days.
The union is expected to submit a draft CBA within one month, while hospital management has pledged to provide all relevant information to support informed and effective negotiations.
Dr Okise also briefed the union on the progress of the transition.
He said staff harmonisation and alignment of salary structures are expected to be completed by February.
He called for sustained dialogue to maintain a stable working environment and to address concerns before they escalate into industrial action.
Both KMPDU and JOOTRH expressed optimism that the agreement will improve staff welfare, strengthen institutional stability and ultimately enhance the quality of healthcare services for patients across the region. End.
by FAITH MATETE
