KENYA: Kenyan Government Releases KSh 965 Million For Medical Intern Salaries

      By Lisbeth Micheni, Kenya 

In a significant move to address the plight of medical interns across the country, the Kenyan government has disbursed KSh 965 million to cover delayed salaries.

This funding comes after prolonged complaints and protests from the interns, who have cited severe financial strain due to the delays.

Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha confirmed the release, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring fair compensation for health workers, particularly interns.

These funds aim to resolve wage arrears for the current financial year and provide relief to interns who have endured months without pay.

The announcement has been met with mixed reactions. While some interns expressed relief, others remain skeptical, citing previous instances of delayed payments despite government assurances.

The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has welcomed the move but called for long-term solutions to recurrent salary delays in the health sector.

This development highlights ongoing challenges in Kenya’s healthcare system, particularly with workforce remuneration.

Observers hope that timely salary disbursements will improve morale among medical professionals, crucial for enhancing healthcare delivery nationwide.