The Ministry of Health has suspended two senior officials and halted all transplant services at Mediheal Group of Hospitals as the government intensifies investigations into a suspected illegal organ transplant scandal that has gripped the nation.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale on Thursday announced the drastic measures following a public outcry and alarming reports suggesting the existence of organ trafficking rings allegedly targeting vulnerable populations across the country.
Duale said the suspension of transplant services at Mediheal Hospital in Eldoret is a necessary step to uphold professional standards and safeguard the lives of patients. “We are aware that this will affect those awaiting kidney transplants, but patient safety must come first,” the CS stated.In addition to the suspension of Mediheal’s transplant procedures, the government has blocked the issuance of medical licenses to foreign nationals from outside the East African region. This is aimed at tightening regulation and ensuring that all practitioners meet the required standards.
The Ministry has also urged Kenyans affected by the transplant scandal to come forward and record statements with the police to aid in ongoing investigations.
To reinforce accountability, a commission of inquiry has been established to investigate the scandal and recommend appropriate action against those found culpable.“These measures are part of a broader effort to rid the country of the menace of illegal organ trafficking and restore public trust in the healthcare system,” Duale said.
