Senate · Morning Sitting

Senators questioned the Ministry of Defence on the rehabilitation of Uhuru and Central Parks in Nairobi. The Cabinet Secretary reported that the projects are largely complete, with a few pending works and a handover to the County Government scheduled for the next day, and outlined plans for ongoing management, additional facilities, and budgetary support. The discussion highlighted collaborative efforts between the Ministry and Nairobi County to maintain and enhance the parks. The Minister of Health outlined the government’s negotiation efforts to end the doctors’ strike, detailing the stipend offers for medical interns, clinical officers and nurses, and linking payment solutions to the Social Health Insurance Act. Senators raised procedural concerns and accused each other of unparliamentary language, reflecting tension alongside the substantive discussion on health financing and service continuity. Senators raised concerns over long‑standing unpaid NHIF claims to health facilities and demanded an audit and transparency before the transition to the Social Health Authority. The Health Cabinet Secretary responded that a transitional committee, supported by Treasury and the Auditor General, is reconciling claims and that Ksh 36 billion has been paid last year, with additional funds being sought to settle outstanding amounts. The debate highlighted both frustration over delays and assurances of ongoing remedial actions.