Committee probes Kidney transplants as witnesses cite intimidation

The national committee investigating alleged human organ trafficking has begun its four-day hearings in Eldoret, with witnesses raising concerns about pressure from hospitals linked to the scandal.

The committee, led by Prof Elizabeth Bukusi, is gathering evidence on the state of organ transplant services in the country. In Uasin Gishu, the team is focusing on claims tied to kidney transplants, with Mediheal Hospital named in connection to some of the cases.

The hearings are being held at the Eldoret West Market Social Hall, where the public has been invited to share their experiences.

Prof Bukusi confirmed that the committee is handling the testimonies with care and confidentiality.

“The committee does not anticipate any risks to participants, but if any arise, care will be taken to inform and protect them,” she said.

Some witnesses have declined to appear in public sessions, saying they have been contacted by hospitals involved and told to withdraw their statements.

“The matter is very sensitive and I will only give evidence in private,” said one witness after signing a consent form.

To encourage participation, the committee has set up a phone number and email address to make private arrangements. Prof Bukusi said both public and private testimonies would be treated equally.

The committee was formed by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale to investigate alleged malpractice in tissue and organ transplants. It is also reviewing existing laws and clinical procedures to strengthen oversight in the sector.

Mediheal Hospital, which operates a transplant centre in Eldoret, is among the facilities under scrutiny. Founder Dr Swarup Mishra has welcomed the probe and assured the committee of the hospital’s cooperation.

Since 2018, Mediheal has carried out 476 kidney transplants—371 for Kenyans and 105 for foreigners.

Dr Mishra said the hospital has a mortality rate of below 10 percent and offers lower rates to local patients as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility.

Foreign patients are charged 35,000 US dollars (Sh4.5 million), while African patients pay 25,000 US dollars (Sh3.2 million).

Dr Mishra said that although transplant charges vary, their procedures are audited regularly by government and health quality bodies.

Mediheal’s lawyer Katwa Kigen, told the committee the hospital had already submitted documents for review and would continue working with the investigation.

“We will provide all the material needed for the committee to review the transplants conducted at Mediheal,” he said.

"We have made our position clear and submitted all documents regarding kidney transplants. Our appearance today confirms our continued commitment to supporting the committee’s work."

After holding its first hearing in Vihiga County, the committee is now visiting nine more counties in 18 days, with Eldoret being given more time due to the seriousness of the claims.

Hearings will continue in Bomet, Meru, Kisii, Nakuru, Kisumu, Nairobi and Mombasa.

The final report is expected to be submitted to the Health Cabinet Secretary by July 22.