Kenyatta National Hospital has apologized to a Nairobi family after a father alleged that a staff member demanded money before releasing his child from the facility. The claim, made earlier this week, has placed fresh scrutiny on Kenya’s largest referral hospital.
In a statement on Friday, the hospital confirmed that it had begun disciplinary action against the employee accused of misconduct in the Surgical Ward 4C discharge unit. Officials described the response as “immediate,” saying the case was being handled under the hospital’s human resources procedures.
Dr. Richard Lesiyampe, the acting chief executive, said the behaviour described by the family fell far below what the public should expect from the national institution.
“We wish to sincerely and unreservedly apologise to the affected family for the immense frustration and distress caused,” he said. “The reported conduct is unacceptable and does not represent the values or the standard of care we are committed to providing at KNH.”
The hospital did not give further details about the staff member or the nature of the disciplinary process. It also did not say whether police had been notified, noting only that internal mechanisms had been activated.
The father’s account has stirred conversations online about patient welfare and the vulnerability of families navigating the country’s overstretched health system. Several Kenyans have called for greater transparency in how complaints are handled, while others urged caution until the hospital concludes its inquiry.
KNH said it would continue updating the public once the review is complete. The family, meanwhile, has not issued any additional statement.
The case adds to ongoing questions about public hospitals, where staffing pressures and long queues have fed repeated calls for reform. For now, KNH insists the matter is being taken seriously.
“We remain committed to ensuring that every patient and family receives care marked by dignity, respect, and professionalism,” said Dr. Lesiyampe.
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