Nairobi– More than 500 private health facilities across Kenya have been shut down in a sweeping government crackdown, exposing deep cracks in the country’s medical system and raising fresh concerns about patient safety.
The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) confirmed on Tuesday that 511 clinics in Nairobi, Mandera, and Wajir counties were closed after failing to meet basic healthcare standards. Another 267 were downgraded for offering fewer services than licensed.
The move follows a nationwide inspection effort carried out in phases in collaboration with the Ministry of Health.
Speaking at a press briefing, KMPDC’s Chief Executive, Dr David Kariuki, said the closures were necessary to safeguard public health.
“Some of these facilities were operating without running water, had no proper waste disposal, and lacked even the most basic medical equipment,” he said. “We found unregistered personnel working in some clinics this puts lives at risk.”
Authorities also arrested 31 individuals accused of running illegal or unregistered health practices.
According to KMPDC, the affected facilities were flagged for various violations: from inadequate infrastructure in key departments like maternity and laboratories, to operating without valid licences or employing unqualified staff. In many cases, facilities could not offer the full range of services they were officially approved to provide.
“These gaps meant they could not safely or effectively deliver the services expected at their designated level,” Dr Kariuki noted.
In a stern warning, the regulator announced that clinics found closed during official working hours would be struck off the register.
“Healthcare is not a part-time job. Facilities must operate consistently and as licensed,” he said.
The crackdown has drawn mixed reactions.
While many in the medical community have welcomed the move, others argue it risks cutting off access in under-served regions. In areas like Mandera and Wajir, where healthcare is already stretched, the closures could leave residents without nearby options.
“We agree on the need for standards,” said Halima Aden, a community health worker in Wajir. “But the government must also step in and provide alternatives. Shutting clinics without a plan hurts the same people we’re trying to protect.”
The Ministry of Health has said it is working on measures to support affected communities, including deploying mobile clinics and reinforcing public health centres.
As inspections continue, Dr Kariuki urged all private health providers to comply with national standards and remain transparent.
“This isn’t about punishment,” he said. “It’s about accountability and ensuring Kenyans can trust the care they receive.”
