Kenya’s top health unions have sounded the alarm over a deepening healthcare crisis in Kiambu County, calling on the national government to intervene following alarming mortality figures and continued mistreatment of healthcare workers.

According to a report released by the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) Central Branch on 2nd, October, 2025 , 670 deaths were recorded between May and September 2025 at Kiambu County Referral and Thika Level 5 Hospitals.

The report attributes the spike in mortality to the ongoing doctors’ strike that significantly disrupted service delivery.

The data shows 303 deaths occurred in general wards, while neonatal deaths accounted for 86, and maternal mortality rose to 85 during the same period.

The Intensive Care Unit (ICU) recorded five deaths, while pediatric deaths stood at 20.

“The figures are a tragic reflection of the systemic failures in Kiambu’s health system, worsened by prolonged industrial action and administrative neglect,” the report noted.

Union Cites Systemic Failures and Neglect

The health unions have accused Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi’s administration of “gross neglect and impunity,” citing a breakdown in governance and failure to prioritize health service delivery.

“Kiambu County has failed to implement the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) salary guidelines. Salaries are delayed, promotions have stalled, and medical cover remains inadequate,” the unions said in a joint statement.

They further alleged that union deductions have been stopped unilaterally, and workers are being victimized through arbitrary transfers meant to silence dissent.

Key Demands from Health Unions

The unions, led by KMPDU, are demanding immediate action on three major issues:

• UHC Staff Absorption: Counties are yet to issue permanent and pensionable letters despite harmonized salaries.
• Career Guidelines: The Council of Governors (CoG) is accused of interfering with the Public Service Commission (PSC) directives.
• Remuneration: The SRC-reviewed pay structures are still pending implementation.

“These delays and interferences are deliberate attempts to frustrate healthcare workers and compromise Universal Health Coverage goals,” the unions said.

Ultimatum to the President

The KMPDU has called on President William Ruto to dissolve the Kiambu County Government, accusing it of incompetence and deliberate disregard for healthcare workers’ welfare.

“If no action is taken, we will mobilize countywide demonstrations starting Wednesday next week,” the union warned.

The health crisis in Kiambu continues to draw national attention, with the latest mortality report serving as a grim reminder of the human cost of stalled reforms and political wrangling in Kenya’s devolved health system.

Newsletter by KMPDU Concerning the Health Crisis in Kiambu County. PHOTO/ KMPDU X.