KMPDU inks deal, to play key role as JOOTRH transitions to Level 6 facility

KMPDU officials, led by secretary general Dr Davji Atellah and JOOTRH officials, led by CEO Dr Joshua Clinton Okise, after signing the recognition agreement at the hospital on December 22, 2025. /KPMDU

The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union has formally positioned itself as a central stakeholder in the transition of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital into a Level 6 national referral facility following the signing of a Recognition Agreement with hospital management.

KMPDU secretary general Dr Davji Atellah described the agreement as a “timely milestone,” underscoring its significance at a moment when JOOTRH is undergoing a critical institutional shift.

“We are committed to working hand-in-hand with hospital leadership to address human resources, equipment availability, access to medicines and the functionality of theatres,” Dr Atellah stated.

“Safeguarding the welfare of healthcare workers ultimately translates into superior patient care,” he added.

JOOTRH chief executive officer Dr Joshua Clinton Okise said after appending his signature to the deal that "the recognition agreement is a progressive step toward a long-term partnership."

He urged sustained engagement, noting the importance of dialogue in maintaining a stable working environment and resolving grievances before they escalate into industrial unrest.KMPDU secretary general Dr Davji Atellah and JOOTRH Chief Executive Officer Dr Joshua Clinton Okise sign the recognition agreement at the hospital on December 22, 2025. /KPMDU

Dr Atellah noted that the hospital is a pioneer facility in transitioning from a county hospital to a national referral institution, adding that the union’s structured involvement would serve as a blueprint for other facilities earmarked for similar elevation.

The agreement establishes a formal framework for engagement between KMPDU and JOOTRH, ensuring the union becomes a key participant in management decisions during the transition period.

Beyond representation, the deal is designed to benefit doctors while strengthening the hospital’s capacity to negotiate improved staff remuneration as its mandate expands to match other national referral hospitals.

A major component of the discussions focused on human resource stability, with the union seeking clarity on the fate of doctors currently serving on locum terms.JOOTRH Chief Executive Officer Dr Joshua Clinton Okise chairs the meeting. /KMPDU

KMPDU advocated for their transition to Permanent and Pensionable (P&P) terms once human resource functions are fully transitioned, with Dr Atellah emphasising that job security is fundamental to the stability of a national referral hospital.

In response, Dr Okise explained that the hospital is awaiting the conclusion of the job evaluation and grading process by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) and the relevant grading bodies.

He said the outcome would provide a clear roadmap for JOOTRH’s staffing needs, including the number of specialists and doctors required to meet national standards.

Dr Okise also expressed his deep appreciation for the commitment and hard work of doctors currently serving at the hospital, acknowledging their role in its growth.KMPDU secretary general Dr Davji Atellah and JOOTRH Chief Executive Officer Dr Joshua Clinton Okise after signing the recognition agreement at the hospital on December 22, 2025. /KPMDU

A key highlight of the agreement is a commitment by both parties to conclude a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) within 120 days.

To facilitate this process, KMPDU is expected to submit a draft CBA within one month, while the employer is required to disclose relevant information to ensure negotiations are informed and transparent.

Dr Atellah expressed confidence that this dialogue-driven approach—successfully applied at Kenyatta National Hospital and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital—will add significant value to JOOTRH’s service delivery as it advances toward Level 6 status.

Dr Okise, briefing the union on progress made so far, said February 2026 has been set as the target for completing staff transitions and harmonising salary structures.

Both parties expressed optimism that the recognition framework will enhance institutional stability and improve healthcare outcomes for patients across the Lake Region Economic Block and beyond.