At least 186 Universal Health Coverage (UHC) health workers who were contracted six years ago have received Permanent and Pensionable (P&P) employment letters from the County Government of Makueni.

Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. announced the development during a development tour of Emali/Mulala Ward in Nzaui Sub-County on Tuesday, saying remuneration challenges had delayed the absorption of the workers into the permanent establishment.

“Remuneration has been one of the challenges that hindered absorbing the health workers into the P&P establishment. We had discussions between the county and national governments on how to pay their gratuity,” said Mutula while addressing wananchi at Emali Level 3 Hospital.

“This is a milestone for the health workers who were contracted during the Covid-19 period. They have waited for six years,” he added.

The governor thanked the workers for their dedication and commitment to serving residents during the period, assuring them that his administration would continue supporting county employees.

He said 653 health workers across various cadres were promoted during the 2025/2026 financial year, with some also sponsored to undertake long-term training.

“In the year 2025/2026, a total of 653 health workers across various cadres were promoted. We are the only ones who promoted staff and took them to undertake long-term training,” said Mutula.

The governor further announced that nurses would receive risk allowance and said his administration would address challenges affecting clinical officers in the county.

However, he cautioned health workers against politicizing health matters during their meetings, urging them to remain focused on service delivery.

At Emali Level 3 Hospital, Mutula directed County Executive Committee Member for Health Joyce Mutua to ensure that a delivery bed is installed at the facility by next week.

The move is intended to reduce the burden on women who currently seek maternity services at neighbouring facilities, including Sultan Hamud, Kibwezi, and Makindu Level 4 hospitals.

Mutula also said the county government would construct a theater and install a delivery bed at Emali Hospital to improve access to maternal healthcare services for residents of Emali Municipality.

“I don’t see why we deny them a theater to serve women and the people. These women we see here should be able to give birth here. I direct the CECM to bring a delivery bed here by next week,” he said.

By Patrick Nyakundi