Doctors have secured a major win after the government finally released salary arrears owed to them for seven years.

In a statement dated Wednesday, September 17, 2025, the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU) Secretary General, Dr. Davji Atellah, confirmed that several doctors had already received the arrears in their bank accounts.

“Promise Made, Promise Kept! Today marks a historic victory for doctors and the labour movement in Kenya. After seven years of relentless pursuit, the second and final batch of the 2017–2024 Basic Salary Arrears has finally been released, with members already receiving payments in their respective bank accounts,” Davji stated.

He described the payment as a milestone that crowns doctors’ long struggle for the full implementation of the 2017 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) and the Return-to-Work Agreement signed in May 2024.

He added that it proves workers can achieve remarkable victories with unity of purpose and strategic leadership.

Davji further noted that the development followed engagements with President William Ruto.

“This positive development follows our engagement with H.E. President Dr. William Ruto in May 2024 at State House, Nairobi, where he committed to resolving the arrears within two years and addressing other pending CBA issues,” he said.

He also credited Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, State Department for Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni, and State Department for Medical Services Principal Secretary Dr. Ouma Oluga for their instrumental role in implementing the 2024 Return-to-Work Formula.

According to Davji, CS Duale embraced dialogue and demonstrated forthrightness in ensuring agreements were honoured.

Looking ahead, the KMPDU boss said the union’s next focus is securing the 2024–2025 arrears, ensuring every doctor’s payslip reflects the rightful new salary rates, and pushing for the employment of 2,000 doctors.

At the same time, he challenged county governors to honour their commitments by promoting deserving doctors and providing functional medical cover.

He argued that this will guarantee industrial harmony, which is essential for the successful implementation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

Davji also thanked doctors for their resilience, urging them to serve patients with renewed dedication.

“Congratulations, doctors! As you smile to the bank, remember, this is your victory. Let us now continue serving our patients with renewed strength, dignity, and compassion,” he said.

According to the 2024 agreement between the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) and the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU), senior doctors are entitled to earn up to KES 1.4 million per month.

For new doctors posted to referral hospitals, the agreed salary ceiling is KES 413,785 per month, while their counterparts working in lower-level health facilities are expected to receive an average of KES 206,000 per month.

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