Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) Secretary General Davji Atellah has raised serious concerns over Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale’s ability to effectively manage Kenya’s healthcare system.
Concerns Over Duale’s Leadership in the Health Ministry
Speaking in Eldoret, Atellah expressed skepticism regarding Duale’s understanding of Kenya’s complex health sector. He argued that Duale’s lack of prior experience in the field could pose significant challenges in addressing the critical issues facing healthcare professionals and patients alike.
“I have serious reservations about Duale’s capability to run the Health Ministry effectively. His understanding of Kenya’s healthcare system appears inadequate,” Atellah stated.
Comparing Duale to Past Health Ministers
Atellah compared Duale’s appointment to that of his predecessors, highlighting the effectiveness of former Health CS Deborah Barasa. He praised Barasa’s proactive leadership, which he credited with preventing a doctors’ strike, and contrasted it with Susan Nakhumicha’s tenure, which he claimed was marred by political interference and ultimately led to industrial action.
“During Nakhumicha’s tenure, healthcare became overly politicized, resulting in a strike. Barasa, on the other hand, understood the doctors’ grievances and was able to prevent a crisis,” he noted.
Call for Effective Implementation of Social Health Authority (SHA)
Atellah urged Duale to prioritize the successful implementation of the Social Health Authority (SHA) to ensure fair and efficient healthcare access for all Kenyans. He warned against politicizing the sector and instead encouraged a policy-driven approach to solving healthcare challenges.
“Duale must avoid politicizing the sector and instead focus on making the SHA work for everyone,” he cautioned.
Davji Atellah the Plight of Medical Interns and CBA Implementation
A major issue Atellah emphasized was the ongoing struggles of medical interns and the unresolved Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), both of which have historically led to widespread unrest within the healthcare sector. He stressed that Duale must take these matters seriously and familiarize himself with the pressing concerns affecting healthcare workers.
“Understanding the struggles of medical interns and addressing the pending CBA is essential. If necessary, Duale must take time to learn and engage meaningfully,” Atellah urged.
The Road Ahead for Kenya’s Health Ministry
Atellah’s remarks reflect growing apprehension among medical professionals about the future of healthcare governance in Kenya. As Duale assumes office, the healthcare sector will be watching closely to see how he navigates the challenges ahead.
For Kenya’s healthcare system to thrive, strong leadership, informed decision-making, and a commitment to addressing longstanding issues will be crucial. The focus must remain on ensuring quality healthcare services for all citizens while supporting the professionals who make it possible.
