KUCO officials sign a deal with Machakos County Government. Photo Gvrns Press. 
By Andrew Mbuva
In a significant relief to residents of Machakos County, a looming strike by clinical officers was suspended on the night of July 11th, following a high-stakes meeting between the County Government and officials from the Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO). The industrial action had been scheduled to begin at midnight on July 12th.
The crisis-averting meeting was chaired by County Secretary and Head of Public Service, Dr. Ndambuki Muya, and culminated in a signed agreement that addressed key demands by the union. Among the commitments made by the County was the implementation of Career Progression Guidelines (CPGs) for Clinical Officers. This includes long-awaited promotions, re-designation to appropriate job groups and titles, and redress of prolonged stagnation that has affected hundreds of health workers in the county.
Describing the resolution as “a major win for the people of Machakos,” Dr. Muya lauded the deal as a testament to Governor Wavinya Ndeti’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the county’s healthcare system. “Clinical services will continue uninterrupted,” he assured.
Present during the negotiations were key county health officials, including Health CECM Mr. Justus Kasivu, Acting Chief Officer of Medical Services Mr. Rashid Kala, Chief Officer of Public Health Mr. Simon Mwako, Director of Administration Mr. Jackson Kiio, and Human Resource Representative Mr. Raphael Mwanzia. KUCO’s top leadership, including Secretary-General George Gibore, National Chairperson, Deputy Chairperson Bonface Mitambo, regional officials, and several union members were also in attendance.
The agreement comes after a tense standoff that had seen KUCO accuse the county of reneging on past promises. The union had issued a strike notice, alleging that the county had failed to honor Governor Wavinya’s public directive that promotions and salary adjustments be effected from May 2025.
“We have waited in vain. Over 300 clinicians have been sidelined for more than seven months, yet budgetary provisions had been made,” lamented KUCO Secretary-General George Gibore. He further accused the county of violating a court order that directed immediate resolution of the clinical officers’ grievances.
Deputy Chairperson Bonface Mitambo echoed the sentiment, accusing the county administration of bad faith and a lack of genuine commitment to dialogue and lawful obligations.
Despite the tension, the union leadership expressed cautious optimism following the agreement, stating they would closely monitor its implementation.
The County Government reiterated its dedication to staff welfare and affirmed its broader mission of ensuring access to quality and affordable healthcare for all residents. Whether this truce leads to lasting industrial harmony will now depend on the county’s adherence to the agreed terms.
