NAIROBI, Kenya- In the wake of Lucy Wambui’s passing—a prominent influencer who tragically died after complications from a cosmetic procedure—Kenya’s Ministry of Health has launched a countrywide assessment of clinics offering plastic surgery services.
This sweeping initiative aims to enforce stricter compliance with health standards and protect patient safety across the sector.
The ministry’s intensified scrutiny follows an investigation by the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) into Omnicare Medical Limited, also known as Body By Design, where Wambui’s procedure took place.
Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni confirmed that Omnicare was operating below minimum medical standards and lacked crucial patient safety measures.
Consequently, the Ministry of Health shut down the clinic, citing “serious malpractices” and blatant disregard for health regulations.
In a statement, Muthoni remarked, “The Ministry of Health expresses concern over the incident and underscores the serious malpractices and non-compliance with health standards identified at Omnicare Medical Limited.”
She also emphasized that this tragic incident has prompted an urgent focus on safety in clinics providing elective surgeries.
In an effort to prevent future incidents, the ministry has directed all regulatory agencies to inspect similar clinics across Kenya.
The Kenya Health Professional Oversight Authority (KHPOA) is tasked with coordinating the assessments and is expected to provide a detailed report within 30 days.
This proactive approach aims to identify and shut down any non-compliant facilities operating within the sector.
This development highlights Kenya’s commitment to tightening health standards within elective medical procedures.
Lucy Wambui’s passing has ignited strong public sentiment, with many—including Rigathi Gachagua and Mike Sonko, who attended her burial—condemning the negligence that led to her untimely demise.
At Wambui’s funeral, loved ones and supporters expressed their sorrow, calling for stricter regulations to ensure such incidents are not repeated.
A petition filed to halt Omnicare’s closure was dismissed by a Nairobi court, further underscoring the legal and public support for heightened oversight.
This tragic loss has led Kenya to take bold steps to bolster safety in its healthcare system. While the nationwide review unfolds, authorities remain focused on ensuring clinics meet stringent health standards and on upholding the well-being of all Kenyans seeking medical care.
