The Bungoma County Government has signed a Collective Bargaining Agreement with Clinical officers, ending years of strained relations that frequently disrupted healthcare services.

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The deal with the Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO), was signed on Wednesday.

It brings to a close a week-long industrial action that culminated in picketing at several health facilities, crippling service delivery.

Officials described the agreement as a turning point in labour relations within the county’s health sector.

“This agreement marks the beginning of a new chapter of mutual trust, improved working conditions and better service delivery to our people,” said a county official present during the signing.

Under the CBA, clinical officers are set to benefit from improved terms of service, including enhanced remuneration, comprehensive medical cover and structured career progression pathways.

The agreement also addresses long-standing concerns such as redesignation procedures, absorption of contracted and Universal Health Coverage staff, health risk allowances and the promotion of inclusive leadership and management practices.

County Secretary William Nasong’o signed the agreement on behalf of the county government, alongside County Public Service Board chairperson Fredrick Wanyonyi Simiyu.

Others were Health and Sanitation executive Chrispinus Barasa, chief officer David Maling’a and County Attorney Edward Waswa.

KUCO officials were also present, signalling a unified commitment to implementing the terms of the deal.

Sources within the county government indicated that the agreement is expected to restore normalcy in health facilities, boost staff morale and significantly enhance access to quality healthcare services for residents.

Also in attendance were County Health director Dr Caleb Watta and Kennedy Bomji.

The deal is expected to steady services within the county. The county government commissioned a Sh300 million state-of-the-art radiology unit at the Bungoma County Referral Hospital to boost its diagnostic services.