The government has directed all referral hospitals to submit detailed security and operational audit reports within seven days, outlining existing gaps, corrective steps taken and urgent measures required.
The directive was issued on Monday by the Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale during a high-level meeting with CEOs of national referral hospitals to address recent security lapses at Kenyatta National Hospital and other emerging operational challenges in public health facilities.
CS Duale emphasized the urgent need for reforms to restore public confidence in our healthcare system, citing systemic weaknesses that require immediate attention.
“Hospitals must develop or update crisis communication plans to ensure timely, transparent responses during emergencies.” Duale noted.
To strengthen security, the CS announced plans to collaborate with the Ministry of Interior to enhance coordination between hospitals and local security agencies.
The meeting attended by Medical Services PS Dr Ouma Oluga, Director General for Health Dr Patrick Amoth and CEOs of national referral hospitals underscored stronger enforcement of staff discipline and improved institutional culture, noting rising public concern over patient care and conduct.
Similarly, the CS reminded CEOs of their non-delegable responsibility to ensure safety, discipline and effective management within their institutions.
“Hospital leadership bears a non-delegable responsibility to safeguard patients and staff while ensuring smooth, accountable operations,” the CS stated.”
While reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to supporting hospitals, Duale stated that this support must be matched by accountability and clear, measurable progress urging leaders at facility level to drive the partnerships.
“Leadership at the facility level must actively drive these partnerships. While the Ministry remains committed to supporting referral hospitals, this support must be matched by accountability and clear, measurable progress.”
