- Health CS Aden Duale says plans are underway to create clear rules for organ donations and transplants.
- The government wants to protect patients from exploitation and boost ethical standards.
- Duale urged Kenyans to go for transplant services only at certified hospitals.
- A new vaccine shipment is expected in June to ease the ongoing shortage.
- KUTRRH praised for leading in advanced treatments like transplants and cancer care.
Health Ministry Moves to Regulate Transplants
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has announced that the government is developing a national legal framework to guide organ donation and transplantation. Speaking during a tour of Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH), Duale noted that Kenya needs strong policies to match the increasing demand for such services.
He said the aim is to ensure ethical practices, transparency, and safety for patients, especially as transplant procedures become more common across the country.
Laws Under Review to Tame Abuse
Duale pointed out that the Ministry of Health is currently revisiting the laws that deal with transplant cases. The focus is to close gaps that could allow illegal organ trade and unethical medical practices. With organ trafficking concerns on the rise, the government wants to stay ahead by sealing loopholes that put vulnerable patients at risk.
The CS stressed that Kenyans should only go for such procedures in approved facilities, where standards are observed and monitored.
Government Boosting Local Health Capacity
He also reaffirmed the state’s commitment to building strong local health systems that reduce the need to travel abroad for advanced care. Investments are being made to equip facilities like KUTRRH with modern tools, better infrastructure, and highly skilled medical workers to handle complicated procedures locally.
According to Duale, this shift will make healthcare more accessible and affordable for ordinary Kenyans.
Shortage of Vaccines to Be Resolved Soon
While at KUTRRH, Duale also addressed the ongoing lack of key childhood vaccines such as BCG and polio. He assured parents that the government, working closely with UNICEF, expects a fresh consignment of vaccines to arrive in June. The stock is projected to serve the country’s needs for at least eight months.
This comes as many public hospitals across Kenya continue to report dwindling vaccine supplies, sparking concern among parents.
KUTRRH Hailed for Medical Excellence
The Health CS lauded KUTRRH for being at the forefront of Kenya’s medical innovation. He said the hospital has become a model for specialized treatment, especially in areas like organ transplants, cancer care, and diagnostic imaging.
Duale added that the hospital’s progress is a clear sign that Kenya is on the right track in building a strong and self-sufficient healthcare system.
