Kenya’s public health sector is set to receive a massive injection of fresh workforce after the Ministry of Health announced the deployment of 6,484 healthcare interns under the 2025/2026 internship cohort.
In a nationwide rollout described as one of the most expansive in recent years, the Ministry confirmed that the interns would be dispatched across accredited training hospitals starting next week, as part of a wider effort to reinforce the delivery of essential health services.
Here’s the official breakdown of the deployed cadres:
Medical Officer Interns – 1,147
Dentist Interns – 87
Pharmacist Interns – 500
BSc Clinical Officer Interns – 659
Clinical Officer Interns (Diploma) – 1,993
BSc Nursing Officer Interns – 2,098
In a directive issued on Friday, the Ministry instructed all eligible pre-interns to collect their posting letters in person from the Ministry of Health Headquarters in Nairobi on Monday, 30th June 2025. A valid National Identity Card will be required for verification.
“All interns are expected to report to their assigned accredited internship centers by Tuesday, 1st July 2025,” the Ministry added.
The deployment is seen as a timely intervention amid ongoing concerns over understaffing in health facilities, especially in rural counties where medical services have been stretched thin.
The announcement has been met with cautious optimism from recent health graduates who had expressed frustration over delays in internship placements. It is also expected to ease pressure on county governments grappling with gaps in skilled personnel under the devolved health system.
The Ministry has urged all interns to adhere strictly to the reporting timelines and await further instructions from respective placement facilities.
