Nurses at Kenyatta National Hospital have called off their strike following a return-to-work agreement reached after hours of negotiations between hospital management and union officials.

In a statement on Tuesday, Health CS Aden Duale said the industrial action had been resolved through “intensive and constructive negotiations” involving the Kenya National Union of Nurses and Midwives and the hospital’s leadership.

“I am pleased to announce that the industrial action by nurses at Kenyatta National Hospital has been officially called off,” Duale said, thanking both sides for demonstrating goodwill and professionalism in reaching a deal.

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Under the agreement, the parties addressed several key issues that had triggered the strike, including the improvement of medical cover for staff, structured promotion pathways, and measures to ease workload pressures.

The deal also provides for the progressive transition of nurses on contract terms to permanent and pensionable employment, a longstanding demand by health workers seeking job security and better benefits.

“These are important steps toward strengthening staff welfare, motivation, and retention within our health system,” Duale said.

Duale commended the hospital management for what he described as openness and flexibility during the negotiations, noting that efforts were made to maintain essential services even as talks progressed.

“I also wish to commend the management of Kenyatta National Hospital for their commitment to finding lasting solutions while ensuring continuity of essential services,” he said.

He urged nurses to resume duty immediately and maintain professionalism in the delivery of healthcare services.

“As we move forward, the focus must now shift firmly to delivering quality, timely and compassionate healthcare services to all Kenyans,” Duale added.

The Ministry of Health said it will work closely with stakeholders to ensure full implementation of the agreed measures within set timelines, adding that mechanisms have been put in place to monitor progress and prevent future disruptions.

The resolution marks a significant step in restoring normal operations at KNH, which plays a critical role in providing specialised healthcare services not only to Nairobi residents but also to patients referred from across the country.

The strike had also highlighted broader systemic challenges within the public health sector, including financing gaps and workforce constraints, which officials say require sustained engagement between government, hospital management and unions.

The Ministry reiterated its commitment to strengthening the health workforce and improving service delivery across public facilities, even as stakeholders continue to push for long-term solutions to recurring labour disputes in the sector.