Following the signing of an agreement between the Ministry of Health and the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU), the Ministry of Health will immediately post 1,210 intern doctors to commence their twelve-month internship by August 1, 2024.

The Ministry to avert confusion, has revoked the internship offer letters issued on March 18, 2024.

In a meeting held on Wednesday that brought together the Ministry of Health, led by Principal Secretary for the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards Ms. Mary Muthoni Muriuki, and the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU), led by Secretary General Dr. Davji Atellah, a return work agreement was signed.

'We have today signed an addendum to the Return-to-Work Formula dated May 8, 2024. This crucial agreement, signed amid ongoing negotiations, confirms the immediate posting of 1,210 intern doctors, enabling them to start their internships by August 1, 2024." read a statement released on Wednesday.

The terms of engagement for these intern doctors will follow the conditions set out in their new internship placement letters that will be immediately rolled out.

The meeting also sought to solve difficulties in the issue of renumeration.

"The issue of remuneration, currently in dispute, will be resolved according to the final determination of the Eldoret Employment and Labour Relations Court Petition E003 of 2024 and other related cases. All arrears earned before the court's decision will be paid in full within ninety days of the ruling."

The Ministry and KMPDU all in one voice, acknowledged the ongoing court matters related to this intern doctors and salary dispute that is currently in the Employment and Labour Relations Court in Eldoret and Nairobi.

They also recognize the establishment of the Presidential Taskforce on Addressing Human Resources for Health on July 5, 2024, which includes KMPDU members.

They vowed to rally their support to the Presidential Task Force to expedite the task about issues related to the Human Resources for Health Internship and provide recommendations.

The Ministry of Health, on their part, expressed gratitude to the KMPDU for their steadfast commitment and constructive engagement throughout this process while stating that the agreement made will be a step ahead of efficient health delivery.

"This agreement marks a positive step towards improving the working conditions for healthcare professionals and ensuring the provision of quality healthcare for all Kenyans."

In the statement released, the Ministry remained dedicated to fostering a collaborative relationship with KMPDU and other stakeholders in the health sector to address and resolve ongoing issues, ultimately enhancing the healthcare system in Kenya.