In a recent disclosure, the Kenyan government unveiled the details surrounding its controversial agreement with Cuba that brought Cuban doctors to the country under the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) program.

The revelations have sparked a debate over the exorbitant costs and implications for local healthcare professionals.

Exorbitant Costs Uncovered

The Kenyan government reportedly paid approximately Ksh 625,000 (around $5,000) for each of the 120 Cuban doctors stationed in the country.

This figure included a monthly salary of Ksh 125,000 ($1,000) along with additional expenses.

In stark contrast, Kenyan doctors in similar roles received salaries ranging from Ksh 160,000 to Ksh 230,000 ($1,600 to $2,300) per month, raising questions about the financial wisdom of the deal.

Critics have pointed out that the Cuban doctors not only received higher salaries but also enjoyed better travel and housing allowances, leading to accusations of inequity within the healthcare system.

Lack of Transparency

The lack of transparency surrounding the deal has drawn ire from lawmakers and medical professionals alike.

The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists’ Union (KPMDU) criticized the government for failing to disclose the financial terms of the agreement, questioning the value for money in a deal that appeared to favor foreign doctors over local talent.

Underutilization of Local Talent

The presence of Cuban doctors has been perceived as a hindrance to the employment of Kenyan medical professionals.

Critics argue that the funds allocated for the Cuban doctors could have been better spent on hiring more Kenyan doctors or enhancing medical infrastructure, thereby improving healthcare delivery in the country.

Termination of the Agreement

In a significant development, Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha announced in October 2023 that the government would not renew the six-year-old agreement with Cuba.

This decision followed mounting pressure from lawmakers, governors, and the KPMDU, who called for an end to the arrangement, asserting that the Cuban doctors had fulfilled their purpose.

Nakhumicha expressed confidence in the capabilities of Kenyan health professionals, stating, “We believe our local doctors are equally committed to serving the country and can provide the necessary healthcare services.”

As the government moves to terminate the deal, the future of healthcare delivery in Kenya remains a topic of keen interest, with many advocating for a renewed focus on strengthening the local medical workforce and infrastructure.