This archive report was first published on 14 July 2019.
Published on July 14, 2019, a time when health facilities in Kenya were facing a crisis of confidence.
Kenya's health facilities have been making headlines for all the wrong reasons. What was once a place of healing has turned into a zone of death. The recent spate of incidents has left many wondering if the system is failing.
One of the most disturbing cases emerged in January 2018, when allegations of staff at Kenyatta National Hospital sexually assaulting patients in the maternity wards surfaced. Although an investigation later cleared the hospital staff of any wrongdoing, the incident highlighted the need for greater accountability.
Just a month later, CCTV footage released by police showed a woman accused of stealing a three-week-old twin baby. The incident sparked outrage and raised questions about the security measures in place at the hospital.
March 2018 saw a patient undergo brain surgery at Kenyatta National Hospital, despite only requiring nursing and medication for a head swelling. The incident was a stark reminder of the need for proper diagnosis and treatment.
More recently, 11 babies at KNH's newborn unit died of suspected bacterial infection. The nurses were accused of improvising feeding methods and sharing cots with the babies.
Similar incidents have been reported at other hospitals, including Pumwani Maternity Hospital, where 12 infant corpses were discovered in September 2018. The mothers of the deceased babies alleged neglect by the nurses.
The situation at Kerugoya County Referral Hospital was no better, with reports of a poor working and patient environment in March 2019.
As the number of incidents continues to rise, Kenyans are losing trust in public health facilities. The Ministry of Health and hospital management must take immediate action to address the issues. This includes checking the status of facilities, improving working environments, providing equipment, hiring well-trained and conduct-worthy staff, and conducting regular inspections.
Ministry officials must also hold those in charge accountable for any mistakes and take action against them.
