Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has taken a strategic step to ensure it is on board and part of the transition entities of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) into a Level 6 national referral facility.

This formalization was cemented through a Recognition Agreement signed by KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Bhimji Atellah and JOOTRH Chief Executive Officer Dr. Joshua Clinton Okise. The agreement establishes a structured framework for engagement, ensuring the union is a key stakeholder in the hospital’s management decisions during this critical period of growth.

The move is designed to benefit doctors within the union while simultaneously strengthening the hospital’s capacity to negotiate improved staff remuneration. As JOOTRH’s mandate expands to match other national hospitals, the agreement addresses existing gaps in staffing needs and infrastructure.

During the deliberations, the Union sought clarity on the fate of doctors currently engaged on locum terms, advocating for their transition to Permanent and Pensionable (P&P) positions once HR is fully transitioned. Dr. Atellah emphasized that job security is fundamental to the stability of a national referral hospital.

In response, JOOTRH CEO Dr. Okise stated that once the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) and the relevant grading bodies have completed the job evaluation and grading process, the hospital will have a clear roadmap on its human resource requirements. He noted that this grading will determine how many more specialists and doctors will be brought on board to meet national standards. Dr. Okise further expressed his deep appreciation for the commitment and hard work of the doctors currently serving at JOOTRH, acknowledging their role in the hospital’s growth.

Dr. Atellah characterized the signing as a “timely milestone,” pointing out that JOOTRH is a pioneer facility in transitioning from a county hospital to a national referral institution. He noted that the union’s involvement will provide a blueprint for other hospitals across the country earmarked for similar elevation.

“We are committed to working hand-in-hand with hospital leadership to address human resources, equipment availability, access to medicines, and the functionality of theaters,” Dr. Atellah stated. “Safeguarding the welfare of healthcare workers ultimately translates into superior patient care.”

A key highlight of the agreement is the commitment to conclude a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) within 120 days. To facilitate this, the union is expected to submit a draft CBA within one month. The agreement also requires the employer to disclose relevant information, ensuring that negotiations are informed and transparent.

Dr. Atellah expressed confidence that this dialogue-heavy approach—which has proven successful at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH)—will add significant value to JOOTRH’s service delivery.

JOOTRH CEO Dr. Joshua Clinton Okise welcomed the partnership, briefing the union on the rapid progress of the transition. He highlighted that February 2026 is the target for completing staff transitions and the harmonization of salary structures.

“This recognition agreement is a progressive step toward a long-term partnership,” Dr. Okise said. He urged continued dialogue to maintain a stable working environment and address potential grievances before they escalate into industrial unrest.

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