Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has informed Universal Health Coverage (UHC) contract workers that the government currently lacks the financial capacity to absorb them into permanent positions. Speaking at a public forum in Garissa, Duale acknowledged the essential role played by the healthcare workers in delivering critical services under the UHC program, but said fiscal constraints are preventing their full integration into the public service.

“We value your service and commitment, but at the moment, the Treasury is facing significant budget limitations,” Duale stated. “Until resources improve, it will be difficult to make your employment permanent.”

His comments come amid growing pressure from UHC workers across the country who have been demanding job security after years of serving on short-term contracts. Many of them have staged protests in recent months, urging the Ministry of Health and the counties to transition them to permanent roles.

His comments come amid growing pressure from UHC workers across the country who have been demanding job security after years of serving on short-term contracts. Many of them have staged protests in recent months, urging the Ministry of Health and the counties to transition them to permanent roles.

The government rolled out the UHC initiative as part of President Ruto’s plan to expand access to affordable healthcare. However, financial shortfalls and competing national priorities have strained the program’s sustainability.

Healthcare workers’ unions have responded to Duale’s remarks with disappointment, urging the government to prioritize health in its budgeting. “You cannot talk about quality healthcare while ignoring the welfare of the workers who deliver it,” said a representative from the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU).

As the 2025/2026 national budget nears finalization, attention now turns to whether Parliament and the Treasury will allocate additional funds to support long-term hiring under the UHC program.