KMPDU Demands 30% Pay Increase for Medical Practitioners
NAIROBI, Kenya, May 9 – The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has issued a fresh ultimatum to the government demanding the immediate implementation of the 2025–2029 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
Dr. Davji Atellah, KMPDU Secretary General while speaking during the Union’s Annual Delegates Conference held in Nairobi emphasized that the proposal which includes a 30% salary increment, employment for medical graduates and enhanced insurance coverage.
He noted that doctors have not received any salary increment since 2017, despite the sharp rise in the cost of living and inflation.
“The last time doctors got a salary increment was in 2017 yet inflation has been very high, the proposed 30 per cent increase is reasonable considering the current economic conditions facing healthcare workers”, said Atellah.
The union warned that while they remain open to dialogue, the dignity and welfare of the country’s 10,000 doctors are non-negotiable as they look toward a new five-year leadership term.
Additionally, the Secretary general criticised the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), accusing it of frustrating previous attempts to secure better pay for doctors despite growing economic pressure.
Further, the association is advocating for immediate employment for doctors graduating every year coupled with a standardized enhancement of medical insurance cover for practitioners across all 47 counties.
Atellah signaled a firm belief that the new administration would uphold the momentum in advocating for enhanced benefits and a more supportive professional environment for healthcare workers.
“What you have bestowed upon us today, which we take with utmost humility, is to serve you and to offer service, When I speak to any of the authorities, I speak knowing very well that there are 10,000 doctors that I represent,” stated Atellah.
“The work ahead demands more than continuity, it demands bold action, faster progress, and greater results, From 2026 to 2031, we will intensify the fight for the dignity, welfare and future of every doctor in this country”.
Reflecting on the hard-fought 2024 industrial action, the KMPDU leadership emphasized their unwavering commitment to the cause, noting that they resisted attempts to compromise their stand while fighting for the rights of doctors and interns.
“By prioritizing the long-term welfare of medical interns and the professional dignity of practitioners over short-term concessions, the union maintained its integrity throughout the negotiations to ensure the core demands of the healthcare workforce remained front and center”.
