By Mohamed Siyad - Reporter
Kenya, June 22, 2026 - Cabinet Secretary for Health Aden Duale has co-chaired a consultative meeting with the Chairperson of the Council of Governors and Governor of Wajir County, Ahmed Abdullahi, to review progress on the transition of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) personnel to county governments.
The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of both levels of government to complete the transition of UHC staff to permanent and pensionable terms effective July 2026, in line with the directive of President William Ruto.
During the meeting, key aspects of the transition plan were discussed, focusing on the integration of UHC personnel into county systems to ensure better healthcare delivery.
Both leaders emphasized the importance of this transition in strengthening the healthcare workforce at the county level, addressing staffing needs, and enhancing service efficiency.
They also highlighted collaborative efforts between the national and county governments to facilitate a smooth transition process and provide the necessary support for UHC personnel to secure permanent and pensionable terms by the set deadline.
The meeting emphasized the importance of close intergovernmental collaboration, effective stakeholder coordination, and sustained support for healthcare workers to safeguard uninterrupted service delivery.
The national and county governments remain committed to strengthening devolved health systems and advancing Universal Health Coverage through accessible, quality, and people-centred healthcare for all.
The transition marks a significant milestone in Kenya's devolution agenda, which has seen health services progressively decentralised since the 2010 Constitution came into force. The UHC programme, launched in 2018, saw the national government hire thousands of community health workers, nurses, and other cadres to boost primary care in underserved counties. However, the temporary nature of their contracts sparked repeated strikes and protests, with workers demanding job security and pension benefits.
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County governments have long argued that absorbing the UHC workforce is essential for effective healthcare planning and budgeting. The July 2026 deadline gives county human resource departments a clear timeline to align the incoming staff with existing payroll systems and county-specific health priorities.
Health workers' unions have cautiously welcomed the move, saying permanent employment terms will improve morale and reduce the high turnover that has plagued rural health facilities. They urged county governments to fast-track the verification of UHC staff credentials and ensure that no worker is left out during the transition.
Analysts say the successful handover of UHC personnel could serve as a model for other devolved sectors, demonstrating that intergovernmental cooperation can resolve long-standing staffing disputes. However, they warned that counties with weaker revenue bases may struggle to meet the pension obligations that come with permanent employment, potentially straining already tight health budgets.
The Council of Governors has previously called for additional national funding to support the transition, arguing that unfunded mandates undermine the spirit of devolution. Duale and Abdullahi's joint appearance signals a renewed political will to bridge the gap between national policy and county implementation.