Ministry of Health Announces Absorption of Universal Health Coverage Staff

The Kenyan Ministry of Health has announced the absorption of staff under the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) program.

According to Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, the decision follows a recent joint headcount exercise conducted by the ministry in collaboration with the Council of Governors (CoG).

How many UHC staff have been declared ghost workers?

Duale, in a press release issued on Monday, August 25, 2025, said out of the 7,629 UHC staff verified, 215 did not present themselves and are hence “have been identified as either non-existent (ghost workers) or not qualified health professionals.”

“Their salaries have been stopped and they have been removed from the payroll pending further investigations to prosecute, determine and recover the irregular payment,” the CS said.

The CS further said the remaining 7,414 UHC staff will now be categorised into two groups – those currently in active service and those with pending disciplinary issues.

“Staff in active service will be formally transitioned and absorbed with effect from September 2025,” Duale said.

“This process underscores the unwavering commitment to reforms in the health sector, efficient management of public resources, and realisation of the Government’s pledge to achieve Universal Health Coverage for all Kenyans,” he added.

The CS also stated that the absorption process will be carried out in consultation with the Public Service Commission (PSC) and other stakeholders to ensure fairness, accountability, and transparency.

UHC staff have been up in arms over the delay in their employment as permanent and pensionable workers.

Who are the UHC staff?

The Universal Health Coverage (UHC) staff were hired by the government to support the implementation of the UHC programme, primarily working in county hospitals.

They were initially employed on three-year contracts. The UHC staff include clinical officers, nurses, and other health professionals.