Nairobi Medical Laboratory Officers Threaten to Strike Over Delayed March Salaries

The Kenya National Union of Medical Laboratory Officers (KNUMLO) has issued a stern warning to the Nairobi County Government over unpaid March 2025 salaries, threatening industrial action if the matter is not urgently addressed.

In a letter dated April 10 and addressed to the Nairobi County Secretary, the union expressed outrage over the persistent delays, accusing the county of violating labour laws and subjecting health workers to severe financial hardship.

Mounting Financial Strain

KNUMLO Nairobi Branch Secretary Denis Oduor noted that the delayed salaries have left many healthcare professionals struggling to afford basic necessities such as food, rent, school fees, and medical care.

“As of today, April 10, 2025, salaries have not been remitted, subjecting employees to undue financial hardship,” Oduor said.

The union cited the Employment Act, 2007, and the Labour Relations Act, 2007, both of which mandate the timely payment of wages and the fair treatment of workers.

Breach of Labour Laws

“This situation is not only unjust but also unlawful,” the letter stated. “The ongoing delay constitutes a breach of these provisions and threatens the well-being and dignity of our members.”

KNUMLO stressed that the financial strain has significantly lowered morale and productivity among the county’s healthcare personnel, potentially compromising the delivery of vital medical services.

“The continued financial strain has also led to declining morale and productivity among healthcare staff, further jeopardising the quality and efficiency of essential health services in Nairobi County,” Oduor added.

Strike Threat Looms

Unless immediate action is taken, KNUMLO has warned that medical laboratory officers and other affected healthcare workers may down their tools.

“We regret that this action may lead to disruption of critical health services, but it is a necessary step to safeguard the rights and welfare of our members,” Oduor emphasized.

The union has urged Nairobi County to act swiftly to avoid escalation, calling on the administration to honour its obligations to the health workforce.

“We urge your office to treat this matter with the urgency it deserves and ensure immediate resolution,” the union concluded.

The threat of a strike now adds to growing pressure on Nairobi County, which has also faced criticism over enforcement of noise regulations and illegal settlements ahead of expected long rains.

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Nairobi Medical Laboratory Officers Threaten to Strike Over Delayed March Salaries