The debate over medical internships in Kenya has flared up again after KMPDU Secretary General Davji Atellah accused private hospitals of deliberately locking out newly graduated doctors. His remarks have reignited concerns about fairness, legality, and the future of young medics entering the profession.
Highlights
- Davji Atellah accuses private hospitals of denying doctors internships
- KMPDU says the move goes against existing laws
- Kenya produces over 1,000 new doctors annually
- Claims come amid an ongoing shortage of medical professionals
Main Story
Private Hospitals Under Fire
Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union Secretary General Davji Atellah has taken aim at private hospitals, accusing them of refusing to absorb newly qualified doctors for their mandatory internship programmes.
Speaking during a local radio interview on Monday, January 12, 2026, Atellah said the issue has persisted for years despite continuous engagement between the union and relevant authorities.
“The Law Is Being Ignored”
According to Atellah, the government allocates billions of shillings annually to support medical internships. However, some private health facilities allegedly sidestep their responsibility under the same regulatory framework, denying graduates the opportunity to complete the crucial stage of their training.
He argued that this selective participation undermines both the law and the future of young doctors who have already completed years of rigorous training.
A Growing Irony in Healthcare
Atellah further pointed out what he described as a painful contradiction within the healthcare system. While hospitals frequently complain about a shortage of doctors, Kenya continues to produce between 1,000 and 1,300 medical graduates every year.
The union boss questioned how the country can face staffing gaps when qualified doctors remain stuck without internships — a requirement for full registration and practice.
As more doctors graduate each year, the real question is whether Kenya’s health system is ready to give them a fair chance to serve.
