Relief for 633 doctors as Gov’t clears postgraduate fees backlog

The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has announced that the Ministry of Health has approved the settlement of postgraduate fees for 633 doctors covering the period 2018–2024.

KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Bhimji Atellah confirmed the development in a statement, terming it a “significant milestone” in implementing the Return-to-Work Formula (RTWF) signed on May 8, 2024.

“Today marks a significant milestone: all post-graduate fees for the period 2018–2024 have been approved for payment, covering a total of 633 doctors,” he said.

According to Dr. Atellah, the ministry had initially cleared arrears for 420 government-sponsored registrars in 2018 following negotiations with the union.

He however noted that a backlog persisted after the training committee last sat in 2019, leaving many doctors stranded. Further, he said, the suspension of sponsorships for doctors specializing in obstetrics and gynaecology, paediatrics, and surgery also deepened the crisis.

Dr. Atellah went ahead to add that sustained pressure and follow-ups with the Ministry of Health’s Department of Public Health and Professional Standards eventually unlocked the payments.

“In addition to the 420 already cleared, sponsorship requests for a further 211 doctors have been approved during the 2024/25–2025/26 financial years. This brings the total number of doctors whose postgraduate fees have been settled to 633,” he said, also noting that even those who completed training without their fees being paid will now have their dues settled.

The ministry formally communicated the approvals on August 25, 2025, in line with the union’s agreement under the RTWF.

“As we have always stated, the RTWF of 2024 was about leaving no doctor behind. Our duty as your leaders is to ensure its total implementation,” Dr. Atellah stated.

“This achievement is a testament to our unity, solidarity, persistence, and resilience, values that continue to define our union.”