The Kenya Environmental Health and Public Health Practitioners Union (KEHPHPU) has been officially recognized by the Siaya County Public Service Board and the County Department of Health in a landmark development aimed at strengthening collaboration within the health sector.
The recognition marks a significant step towards institutionalizing dialogue between public health professionals and the county government.
The agreement was formalized during a signing ceremony held at the Public Service Board offices in Siaya town.
The event was chaired by the Acting CEO and Secretary of the Board, Kennedy Orwenjo, who presided over the proceedings and officiated the signing of the recognition agreement.
Siaya becomes the 15th county in Kenya to formally sign such an agreement with KEHPHPU, signaling a growing national trend towards structured engagement between county governments and health worker unions.
The move is expected to enhance representation and ensure that public health officers have a recognized platform for addressing their concerns.
Speaking during the ceremony, officials emphasized the importance of embracing amicable negotiations in resolving disputes.
They cautioned against the frequent use of court battles, noting that litigation often delays solutions and strains relationships between employers and employees.
The recognition agreement underscores the value of social dialogue in fostering mutual understanding and cooperation.
Stakeholders at the meeting reiterated their belief that continuous engagement and open communication are essential for improving service delivery in the health sector.
Brown Ashira, the National General Secretary and CEO of the union, represented public health officers during the signing. He expressed gratitude to the Siaya County leadership for facilitating the recognition process.
“We are social partners in the health sector, and we thank the Governor of Siaya for making this possible,” Ashira stated, highlighting the importance of partnership in achieving shared health goals.
The meeting also brought together county public health officials, reinforcing the collective commitment to improving working conditions and service delivery.
The presence of senior officials demonstrated the county’s support for strengthening institutional frameworks within the health sector.
Kennedy Orwenjo, in his capacity as Acting CEO of the Siaya Public Service Board, lauded the union’s commitment to engaging in good faith.
He noted that the willingness to collaborate constructively would play a crucial role in resolving disputes and maintaining stability within the workforce.
Orwenjo further emphasized that the board is committed to fostering a conducive working environment for all health workers. He pointed out that improved working conditions are directly linked to better health outcomes for the community.
Dancan Momanyi, the Siaya County Branch Chair of the union, welcomed the recognition, describing it as a major milestone for public health officers in the region.
He noted that the move brings much-needed relief and sets the stage for more cordial working relations with their employer.
Momanyi added that the recognition will empower the union to effectively advocate for its members while maintaining a collaborative approach with the county government.
He stressed the importance of unity within the union to ensure consistent and effective representation.
Union members and officials were urged to speak with one voice in advancing their agenda.
Leaders highlighted that unity within the union is critical in strengthening its bargaining power and ensuring that members’ concerns are addressed efficiently.
The signing of the registration and accreditation agreement is expected to pave the way for structured engagement, improved labour relations and enhanced service delivery.
By Calvin Otieno
