The Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) on Tuesday, April 7 intensified pressure on the County Government of Marsabit, warning of a deepening humanitarian crisis as the clinical officers’ strike enters its 151st day.

In a strongly worded statement, KUCO accused the county administration of negligence and failure to honour multiple Return-to-Work Agreements signed between July 2024 and April 2025. The union says none of the agreed provisions—including salary payments, medical cover, and promotions—have been implemented.

The strike, which began on October 1, 2025, has led to a near collapse of healthcare services across Marsabit County. KUCO reports an 85% drop in service delivery, with outpatient visits falling by over 95% and inpatient admissions declining sharply. Neonatal deaths have reportedly increased tenfold, highlighting what the union describes as “devastating and avoidable loss of life.”

Several key facilities, including Moyale, Kalacha, and Laisamis sub-county hospitals, remain non-operational, forcing patients to travel long distances—or even cross into Ethiopia—to access care.

The union also accused the county government of defying court orders by removing clinical officers from payrolls and withholding salaries from December 2025 through March 2026, actions it termed as illegal victimization.

KUCO is now demanding the immediate signing of a draft Return-to-Work Agreement developed in March 2026, reinstatement of all affected officers to the payroll, release of withheld salaries, and an end to all forms of intimidation.

The union has called on the Senate of Kenya to urgently intervene, warning that continued delays will result in further loss of life and suffering among residents.

KUCO officials reaffirmed their willingness to engage in dialogue but insisted that swift action is needed to restore essential health services in the county.