CS Duale apologizes for cancer treatment failures at KNH
Duale admitted that the equipment had broken down, acknowledging the serious impact it has had on patients relying on the facility for cancer care.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has publicly apologized over the malfunctioning of the radiotherapy machine at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), a failure that has disrupted treatment for thousands of cancer patients.
In a statement released on Thursday, May 29, Duale admitted that the equipment had broken down, acknowledging the serious impact it has had on patients relying on the facility for cancer care.
"We regret the inconvenience caused by the malfunction of the LINAC cancer treatment machine at Kenyatta National Hospital," read a section of the statement.
At the same time, Health Cabinet Secretary Duale assured affected patients that the government is working swiftly to resolve the issue.
He noted that an alternative machine has been made available for use as the Ministry seeks a lasting solution.
Duale further stated that the Ministry is expediting the procurement of a replacement machine.
In the meantime, he noted that the Cobalt radiotherapy unit remains fully functional, with patient referrals actively underway to maintain continuity of care.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring full oncology services as quickly as possible.
Cancer patients have reported that the hospital’s sole remaining radiotherapy machine has been out of service for nearly two weeks.
Patients recounted that the hospital had assured them they would be contacted once the machine was repaired and functioning again.
Meanwhile, Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has responded to growing concerns raised by cancer patients regarding the breakdown of its only functioning radiotherapy machine.
In an official statement, the hospital disclosed that its Elekta Linear Accelerator (LINAC) machine, essential for cancer treatment, had suffered an unexpected technical malfunction and is currently non-operational.
The hospital emphasized its awareness of the urgent need for continuous oncology services and noted that referral protocols were promptly initiated to ensure patients continue receiving care without interruption.
KNH further informed the public that its Cobalt radiotherapy machine, which had earlier experienced a breakdown, has since been fully repaired and is now operational.
The hospital also revealed that the procurement process for a new LINAC machine has been accelerated through the relevant tendering procedures and is currently at an advanced stage.
This, the hospital stated, will enable the full restoration of oncology services in the shortest time possible.
KNH reaffirmed its commitment to providing world-class, compassionate care. The hospital expressed gratitude to patients and stakeholders for their patience and understanding and promised to keep the public regularly informed as progress continues.
