Ghost worker claims fuel uncertainty in prolonged UHC standoff

Universal Health Coverage (UHC) health workers from different counties held demos in Nairobi demanding permanent and pensionable terms, payment of gratuity for five years and harmonization of salaries according to SRC on April 29, 2025. [Benard Orwongo, Standard]

As the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) workers’ strike hits 95 days, tensions continue to rise over claims that thousands of them are ‘ghost workers.’

The workers, who have been demanding to be absorbed under permanent and pensionable terms, payment of gratuity and the inclusion of Global Fund staff, now face accusations that threaten their legitimacy.

Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki, also chair of the Council of Governors’ Health Committee, recently claimed there are over 3,000 ghost workers in the counties’ health payrolls. This has sparked outrage among UHC staff and union leaders.

Joseph Ngwasi, National Chair of the Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN), dismissed the claims.

“If there are ghost workers, it is the government which knows who these workers are in their own payroll. We are not opposed to the end code. We do not support impunity in this country,” he said.

Alias Mtai, UHC National Representative, added: “We are not ghosts. We are healthcare workers who have been offering services in various counties.”

He urged authorities to revisit the 2020 Public Service Commission (PSC) adverts and verify how many workers were recruited, replaced, or left service.

Speaking during the unveiling of the new Social Health Authority (SHA) CEO, Principal Secretary for Medical Services Ouma Oluga revealed that the Council of Governors submitted a list of 7,875 UHC workers, while the Ministry of Health only pays 7,637.

“This means the Council submitted more names than we are actually paying,” said Oluga. He clarified that salaries are paid based on actual headcount returns, not budgeted estimates.

“We are working with counties to finalise a proper headcount. The Cabinet Secretary has committed to doing the right thing,” Oluga added.

Despite reassurances, the workers remain on strike, demanding official recognition and better terms.