Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has directed all national referral hospitals to conduct immediate security and operational audits and submit comprehensive reports within seven days following the killing of a patient at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). Convening an emergency meeting with chief executives of the facilities on July 21, Duale said the KNH incident exposed deeper systemic weaknesses across the wider public health system and demanded swift, accountable action.
The mandated reports must map current security vulnerabilities, document corrective steps already taken, and recommend urgent, time‑bound measures to protect patients, staff, and critical equipment. Duale stressed that hospital leadership must own the process and move beyond compliance checklists toward sustained institutional change that rebuilds public confidence.
Strengthening staff discipline and professional conduct featured prominently in the deliberations. Duale noted growing public concern about treatment standards and workplace culture, arguing that security lapses often co‑exist with gaps in supervision, morale, and ethical practice. Facility heads were challenged to review disciplinary frameworks, reinforce codes of behavior, and close weaknesses in shift coverage, identification, and access control.
Improved incident readiness is also on the agenda. Hospitals are to update or establish crisis communication protocols that ensure timely, transparent information flows to families, authorities, and the public during emergencies. Duale further announced plans for closer collaboration between the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Interior so facilities can coordinate more effectively with local security agencies for rapid response and evidence preservation.
Senior health officials, including Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga and Director General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth, attended the session, underscoring government commitment to follow‑through.
The directive follows the July 17 killing of Edward Maingi Ndegwa, who was admitted to KNH’s Ward 7B. Investigators traced blood‑stained slipper prints from the victim’s bedside to a nearby toilet and into an adjoining room, leading to the arrest of suspect Kennedy Kalombotole. Authorities say the tragedy highlights urgent gaps in ward security and surveillance.
Submitted audits will guide a rapid ministry‑wide follow‑up plan to strengthen safety across referral facilities. Findings will inform targeted support and a schedule of spot inspections and progress reviews beginning after the deadline. Duale urged hospitals to implement immediate fixes rather than wait for formal feedback. The seven‑day window places the expected reporting deadline around Monday, July 28, 2025, subject to formal circular confirmation. Hospitals should confirm receipt and submission tracking promptly.
