The Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN) Bungoma branch has suspended its three-week strike to allow negotiations with the county executive.
KNUN Bungoma branch officials, led by Secretary David Wamalwa, announced the suspension after the county government agreed to implement key concerns raised in their strike notice.
The breakthrough followed discussions led by County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health and Sanitation, Carolyne Makali, who engaged with the union to reach an understanding.
She commended the union leaders for prioritising dialogue, which paved the way for the restoration of health services across the county.
"We urge members of the public to continue seeking medical care at health facilities, as services have now resumed. We apologise for the inconvenience caused and commit to addressing the raised concerns to prevent future disruptions," said CECM Makali.
Key issues agreed upon include promotions, redesignation, and confirmation, whose processes are at various stages of implementation.
A deal was also reached on comprehensive health insurance cover and Britam Insurance has resumed services for healthcare workers.
The county assured that uniform and other allowances will be paid in line with applicable circulars.
The county further promised no staff member who participated in the strike will face disciplinary action.
Union official and the county agreed that Alternative Dispute Resolution mechanisms will be employed to address emerging issues amicably.
The union directed its members to report back to work within 24 hours.
Chief Officer Magrina Mayama (Health and Sanitation), County Director of Health Caleb Wanambisi, and other senior county officials witnessed the signing of the agreement.
Nurses in Bungoma began the strike on January 13 after a 21-day strike notice that they issued to the Department of Health and Sanitation lapsed.
Union official David Wamalwa had outlined some of the issues that the department is supposed to implement for the betterment of their work.
He had accused the county of failing to promote nurses as promised and re-designate specialised nurses while utilising their expertise.