In a press briefing held on Thursday, April 4th, 2024, Government Spokesperson Hon. Sen. (Dr.) Isaac Mwaura, CBS, addressed several critical national issues. Here's a recap of the key points:
Healthcare:
-
Doctor Strike Update: Discussions between the government and the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) were a major focus. While details of progress weren't provided, Hon. Mwaura likely emphasized the government's commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and addressing KMPDU's concerns.
- Kenya's Doctor Pay Advantage: It was highlighted that Kenya offers some of the highest doctor salaries in the East African Region, with an average of $530, (around ksh.70,000) compared to neighboring countries. This context was likely provided in relation to the ongoing strike and KMPDU's demands.
- The government is currently employing 3,000 interns at a cost of Ksh. 2.4 billion.
Kenya $538,Rwanda $500,Tanzania$450,Malawi$350,Uganda300,Ethiopia$120 unlike the ksh. 206,000 (which they are demanding per month.
Safety and Security:
-
Road Carnage Concerns: The alarming rise in road accidents was addressed. Statistics on leading causes (speeding, drunk driving, etc.) and the human cost were likely presented. Hon. Mwaura is expected to have emphasized the government's plan to improve road safety through collaboration with relevant agencies and stricter enforcement of traffic rules.
Agricultural Concerns:
-
Fake Fertilizer Fiasco: The recent issue of fake fertilizer in circulation was a key topic. The government clarified that the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) only distributes certified government-subsidized fertilizers with clear labels, not for resale. An apology for the inconvenience caused to farmers by the sale of GPC Soil Conditioner, a non-subsidized product by 51 Capital Ltd. through NCPB depots, was likely delivered. Public reassurances regarding ongoing investigations and prosecutions for those involved were also part of the address. It's important to note that NCPB, a government parastatal, operates on its own revenue and leased warehouse space to 51 Capital Ltd. in this instance.
"GPC is Not a government Fertiliser"....end of Quote!
51 capital ltd used government Facility herein NCPB Depots to undertake an illegal promotion of GPC fertiliser which is not a govt Subsidy Fertilizer neither a fertiliser but a soil conditioner (improver).
NCPB is a govt parastatal that runs on its own generated revenues and in this case leased one of its warehouse to 51 Capital ltd
Looking to the Future: The Better Plan
updates on the government's development agenda, known as "The Better Plan." coming soon.
