Kenya’s Health Cabinet Secretary, Aden Duale, has ordered immediate and strict new security rules in all national referral hospitals. The aim is to prevent cases where patients are dropped off without documentation and to restore confidence in the public health system.
The reforms follow tragic incidents at Kenyatta National Hospital. On 11 July, a patient named Edward Maingi Ndegwa was murdered inside the facility. A similar case occurred earlier in February. Duale called these events “a clear systems failure” and urged swift action.
At a press event held on Monday 28 July at the hospital, Duale said no patient will be admitted to an emergency unit unless they are accompanied by someone whose identity is verified and recorded. “All individuals, including police officers, must show ID at the gate and vehicle details will be logged,” he stated.
He added: “It will never be again where you drop a patient and you go away. From the moment you enter the gate, we’ll record your vehicle, we’ll record your ID card.”
Hospitals have also been told to upgrade CCTV systems, especially in emergency and ward areas. Anonymous call monitoring systems are to be introduced, along with security audits at all referral institutions.
Additionally, visitor limits have been tightened. Each patient may only have two screened visitors at any time. Entry points will implement mandatory screening for everyone entering wards or emergency units.
Duale also announced a broader quality assurance program. It will include regular safety rounds, stronger complaint procedures, anonymous feedback tools for patients and carers and ongoing staff training on patient rights and safety standards.
On the issue of abandoned patients, Duale revealed that 443 individuals currently remain in public hospitals without support or means to pay. A rapid response team will now work with community leaders to trace families or find suitable care arrangements.
Supporters say the changes are overdue and necessary. They point to rising cases of patient abandonment and impersonation in hospital settings.
Critics worry about practical challenges. ID checks for every patient arrival may slow admissions. Overcrowded hospitals might struggle to screen all visitors effectively. Logistical issues may arise in understaffed facilities.
About the Author
