KMPDC shuts 158 health facilities, downgrades 25 for non-compliance
KMPDC CEO David Kariuki said most affected facilities were either unregistered or unlicensed, employed practitioners without proper registration, or operated below minimum medical standards.
The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has closed 158 health facilities across Nairobi and downgraded 25 others after an inspection revealed widespread non-compliance with medical standards.
The move follows a nationwide exercise covering 288 facilities, aimed at enforcing patient safety and quality healthcare delivery.
KMPDC CEO David Kariuki said most affected facilities were either unregistered or unlicensed, employed practitioners without proper registration, or operated below minimum medical standards.
He highlighted that many lacked essential infrastructure, including pharmacies, laboratories, and maternity units, while others had poor sanitation and unsafe waste management practices.
“Poor infrastructure, sanitation challenges, and improper waste disposal pose a direct threat to patients’ health. Our inspections revealed serious gaps that cannot be ignored,” Kariuki said.
The Council explained that the inspections are conducted in collaboration with county governments and other health regulatory agencies under the Inspections and Licensing Rules, 2022, established under the Medical Practitioners and Dentists Act (CAP 253). The regulations mandate regular inspections, annual license renewals, and empower KMPDC to suspend or revoke licenses of non-compliant facilities and practitioners.
“These regulations are designed to promote accountability, transparency, and continuous improvement in healthcare. Ensuring that only licensed, properly equipped, and professionally staffed facilities operate reduces the risk of medical errors, malpractice, and unsafe treatment,” the Council said.
KMPDC announced that the names of the closed facilities will be published in the Kenya Gazette to guide the public in choosing compliant healthcare providers. Details of the closures have also been shared with the National Government Administration Office, county governments, the Social Health Authority, the Digital Health Authority, and other regulatory bodies.
“Our primary duty is to protect patients. We will continue enforcing these regulations firmly and fairly so that every Kenyan receives the quality healthcare they deserve,” Kariuki added.
