The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has welcomed Mombasa County's free healthcare initiative, dubbed 'Mwezi wa Baba,' launched in honour of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. This initiative is part of activities marking the first anniversary of Raila's death on October 15, 2025. The 'Mwezi wa Baba' initiative reflects Raila's vision of ensuring access to healthcare for all Kenyans, as he was a longstanding advocate for Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Atellah expressed his union's support for the initiative after a meeting with Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sharif Nassir. Dr. Atellah welcomed the Governor's commitment to promote the remaining 17 medical consultants by Monday next week. Additionally, the Governor agreed to transition healthcare workers engaged on contract during the free healthcare month to permanent and pensionable terms. Dr. Atellah emphasized the importance of translating these commitments into action.
The KMPDU boss highlighted that discussions with the county leadership focused on the welfare of healthcare workers, working conditions, and professional growth. Dr. Atellah stressed that the quality of healthcare services depended on how medical practitioners were treated. He emphasized that behind every patient who receives care is a healthcare worker who deserves to work in a safe, supportive environment, be treated fairly, and have the opportunity to grow professionally.
Dr. Atellah reiterated the union's position that strengthening the healthcare system required investment in the welfare and professional development of medical workers. He added that when healthcare workers are supported, respected, and given the conditions they need to serve, patients and communities benefit too. The union remains firm in its belief that a strong healthcare system begins with taking care of its people.
Raila died on October 15, 2025, and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party dedicated October 2026 to commemorating his legacy through activities held under the 'Mwezi wa Baba' initiative. This initiative is a tribute to Raila's advocacy for UHC and his impact on Kenya's healthcare sector. The ODM party's efforts aim to keep Raila's legacy alive and promote his vision for a better healthcare system.
The free healthcare initiative in Mombasa County is a significant step towards achieving UHC in Kenya. By providing free healthcare services, the county aims to increase access to healthcare for its residents. The initiative also highlights the importance of investing in healthcare workers and their welfare to ensure the delivery of quality healthcare services.
The launch of the 'Mwezi wa Baba' initiative in Mombasa County has brought attention to the importance of healthcare in Kenya. The KMPDU's support for the initiative demonstrates the union's commitment to promoting the welfare of healthcare workers and improving the healthcare system in Kenya. The success of this initiative will depend on the effective implementation of the commitments made by the county leadership.
Key points
- The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has welcomed Mombasa County's free healthcare initiative launched in honour of Raila Odinga.
- The initiative, dubbed 'Mwezi wa Baba,' reflects Raila's vision of ensuring access to healthcare for all Kenyans.
- The KMPDU has welcomed the Governor's commitment to promote medical consultants and transition healthcare workers to permanent and pensionable terms.
