Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has issued a stern warning to the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC), cautioning them against accrediting medical facilities that fail to meet required standards. During his inaugural visit to the Council’s offices in Nairobi, Duale emphasized that the government would not tolerate the endorsement of substandard or non-compliant health institutions. He made it clear that any individual found engaging in such practices would be held accountable and face the necessary consequences.
In his address, Duale stressed the importance of integrity and transparency in the Council’s operations, reminding KMPDC of its critical role in safeguarding public health. The Cabinet Secretary underscored that under the framework of the 2023 Social Health Insurance Act, accountability must be at the heart of all regulatory activities. He noted that the health sector, being central to the well-being of the population, demands high standards of professionalism and oversight to ensure that all Kenyans—regardless of age or economic status—receive safe, high-quality medical care.
The CS called for swift and decisive action to ensure only facilities that meet stringent standards are accredited, pointing out that lapses in enforcement could expose the public to grave risks. He urged the Council to demonstrate a renewed commitment to responsible governance, efficient service delivery, and the ethical use of public resources. Emphasizing the need for teamwork and timely action, he said the Council must operate in a way that reflects its duty to protect the lives and health of all citizens.
In support of the Council’s mission, Duale pledged the Ministry of Health’s commitment to enhancing KMPDC’s capacity through a combination of legislative reforms and improved resource mobilization. He also promised better collaboration between the Council and other key stakeholders, including county governments and professional associations. According to him, this collective effort would foster a more robust regulatory environment and ensure that healthcare services meet the desired standards.
One of the tools the Ministry is relying on to combat quackery and professional malpractice is the Digital Health Agency. Duale highlighted the agency’s ability to detect unlicensed practitioners and take appropriate action, which he described as a significant step toward shielding the public from dangerous and unqualified service providers.
Joining the CS during the visit was Medical Services Principal Secretary Dr. Ouma Oluga, who emphasized the importance of a well-defined framework for evaluating professional competencies. He noted that such a system is crucial for improving the overall quality of healthcare and ensuring consistency in service delivery throughout the country.
Other officials present at the meeting included Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni, Director General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth, KMPDC Chair Prof. Stanley Khainga, and CEO Dr. David Kariuki. Their presence underscored the significance of the engagement and the shared responsibility in addressing the challenges facing Kenya’s healthcare regulation.
