Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has ordered an urgent investigation into the death of a child allegedly linked to treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), the country’s largest referral facility. CS Duale’s directive follows distressing statements issued by Susan Wanjira, the child’s mother, who said her son died after receiving delayed and questionable care at the hospital ”I brought my son here to get help, but I left with a body” Wanjira said. The child had been rushed to KNH after being involved in a road accident.
Speaking Tuesday, Duale confirmed that he had instructed the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) to open a formal inquiry into the case and work directly with the mother to establish the facts. “I have asked KMPDC to investigate the matter thoroughly and submit a detailed report,” CS Duale said. “We owe it to the family, and to the public, to find out exactly what happened and take action based on facts.”
The Ministry of Health did not disclose the child’s name or age but confirmed that Wanjira raised complaints regarding the medical attention her son received before his death.
The circumstances remain under review, but the Ministry said the final report would determine whether negligence or system failure contributed to the death. Officials also emphasized that the probe would help strengthen accountability in public hospitals.
Wanjira told local reporters she had waited for extended periods without receiving clear updates from KNH staff. “I brought my son here to get help, but I left with a body,” she said.
CS Duale assured the public that the Ministry will not tolerate lapses in care in public hospitals. “Hospitals must offer timely and quality treatment. No parent should have to go through this,” he added.
The KMPDC has begun its fact-finding mission and is expected to deliver its report within the coming days. Any recommendations could trigger disciplinary action or policy reforms aimed at improving emergency response and pediatric care in referral hospitals.
Kenyatta National Hospital has not yet issued a public response to the allegations. The hospital remains under scrutiny as the probe proceeds.
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