Nairobi, Kenya|Health Cabinet Secretary (CS) Aden Duale has inaugurated an Independent Investigative Committee tasked with probing allegations of malpractice and ethical violations in organ transplant procedures at the Mediheal Group of Hospitals.
The move, formalized through Gazette Notice No. 78 dated April 23, 2025, underscores the government’s commitment to restoring public trust and ensuring accountability within Kenya’s healthcare sector.
Speaking at Afya House in Nairobi during the inauguration ceremony, CS Duale emphasized the gravity of the task ahead. “This is a moment of reckoning. We are not just conducting an investigation—we are restoring public trust in our health system. We will not tolerate impunity or protect any wrongdoing,” he declared.
The committee is chaired by Prof. Elizabeth Bukusi, a respected expert in medical ethics and research.
It has been mandated to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into allegations surrounding kidney transplant procedures at Mediheal Hospital’s Eldoret facility, audit records from the past five years, and review Kenya’s existing legal and ethical frameworks governing organ transplantation.
Medical Services Principal Secretary (PS) Dr. Ouma Oluga echoed the CS’s sentiments, urging the committee to work independently, objectively, and professionally.
He stressed the importance of the committee’s findings in streamlining clinical workflows and strengthening regulatory oversight across all healthcare facilities in Kenya.
CS Duale reaffirmed the Ministry’s full support and issued a firm deadline: the committee must submit its final report by July 22, 2025.
“We want a process rooted in truth, not one driven by optics or bureaucracy. The safety, dignity, and rights of recipients, donors, families, and healthcare providers must be safeguarded at every step,” he said.
Pending the outcome of the investigation, the government has suspended all transplant services at Mediheal Hospital. Patients requiring transplant services have been referred to seven accredited hospitals:
- Kenyatta National Hospital
- Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital
- The Aga Khan University Hospital
- Nairobi Hospital
- M.P. Shah Hospital
- Tenwek Mission Hospital
- Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital
Duale stressed that the swift action taken by the government demonstrates its unwavering commitment to upholding ethical medical practices and protecting the vulnerable.
He also emphasized that the inquiry will extend beyond Mediheal Hospital to audit all transplant facilities nationwide.
“We owe Kenyans a transparent, accountable, and ethical healthcare system — and we will deliver,” the CS affirmed.
In a written statement shared via his official social media platforms, Duale reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance policy toward malpractice and corruption in healthcare.
“The committee’s mandate is clear: uphold the truth, protect public trust, and recommend bold reforms,” he noted.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by senior Ministry of Health officials, including Medical Services PS Dr. Ouma Oluga, PS for Public Health and Professional Standards Ms. Mary Muthoni, Director General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth, and other key stakeholders.
The establishment of the Independent Investigative Committee marks a critical step in addressing widespread concerns over the safety and ethics of organ transplant services in Kenya, amid ongoing revelations of alleged exploitation of vulnerable individuals for commercial gain.
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