Nairobi, December 2-President William Ruto’s government has disbursed over KSh 965.9 million in stipends and arrears to medical interns, complying with High Court directives regarding their pay and benefits.
The Ministry of Health confirmed on Saturday, November 30, that payments had been made to nursing, clinical, medical, and pharmacist interns. Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Barasa announced that a total of KSh 965,875,345.60 was allocated to over 3,000 interns. This includes KSh 528,615,125.60 for arrears and KSh 110,668,070 in regular stipends for nursing and clinical officer interns, while KSh 326,592,150.00 was paid to medical, dental, and pharmacist interns.
Dr. Barasa highlighted ongoing discussions with unions as per the High Court’s directions, following a case filed by five petitioners. She expressed appreciation for the interns’ dedication to healthcare delivery, emphasizing their role in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and advancing the national health agenda.
She further assured that the Ministry is committed to resolving pending issues and finalizing Collective Bargaining Agreements to prevent future challenges.
The court had earlier intervened after the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) reduced medical interns’ monthly stipends from KSh 200,000 to KSh 70,000. Petitioners contested the move, citing discrimination and overreach. The court allowed 90 days for both parties to negotiate a resolution on the stipend increase.
