The Ministry of Health has commenced the deployment of 1270 Diploma Clinical Officer interns to healthcare facilities nationwide.

Adan Harakhe, Director of Administration at the Ministry’s State Department of Public Health and Professional Standards, oversaw the issuance of release letters to the interns, marking a crucial step towards bolstering healthcare services in the country.

Harakhe stated, “The Ministry of Health initiated the process of assigning interns to various healthcare facilities nationwide.” He further emphasized the Ministry’s dedication to enhancing healthcare delivery and ensuring that interns provide top-quality services in line with Kenya’s constitution.

Dr. Sultani Matendechero, Deputy Director General for Health, highlighted the significance of health promotion and disease prevention during the internship period, underlining the pivotal role interns play in advancing public health objectives.

In response to the Ministry’s action, George Gibore, Secretary General of the Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO), commended the government’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of medical personnel.

This deployment follows recent protests by medical graduates demanding timely placement as interns, prompting the Ministry of Health and the Kenya Medical Practitioners Pharmacists and Dentists Union to agree on a commencement date of April 1, 2024, for all interns. The move aims to address delays in intern postings and ensure a seamless transition for graduates into healthcare practice.