MACHAKOS, Kenya – Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has called for the installation of CCTV cameras in all public and private hospitals as part of a broader initiative to enhance patient safety and combat fraud in healthcare facilities across Kenya.
Speaking during his final day of the Jukwaa la Usalama public engagement tour in Machakos County, Murkomen stressed the importance of technological solutions to address the growing concerns of security in hospitals, particularly following recent incidents at Kenya National Hospital (KNH) and the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH).
Murkomen emphasized that CCTV surveillance would play a crucial role in improving hospital security by both deterring and documenting any incidents of misconduct, fraud, or security breaches.
“Hospitals must install CCTV cameras to ensure that both patients and healthcare staff are protected,” Murkomen stated. “This will not only assist in investigations but also ensure a safe environment for those seeking medical care.”
The Interior CS noted that CCTV cameras would help monitor activities within healthcare facilities, identifying patterns of behavior, and providing essential evidence in cases of malpractice, theft, or other criminal activities.
“Whether it’s a one-off incident or a recurring issue, CCTV footage will be invaluable in ensuring transparency and accountability in our healthcare sector.”
Murkomen’s call comes amid mounting concerns about fraudulent practices within hospitals, including mismanagement, corruption, and even illicit activities such as organ harvesting.
These concerns have been fueled by recent investigations into allegations of human trafficking and illegal organ trade within healthcare systems.
Murkomen assured the public that the government is closely monitoring the situation and promised a thorough investigation into the matter.
“As we continue investigating the issue of illicit practices, including organ harvesting, we must ensure that hospitals are held accountable for the safety and well-being of their patients. CCTV will help in documenting and preventing fraud,” he explained.
The CS also discussed the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance oversight in healthcare facilities, particularly in response to recent security lapses at KNH and MTRH.
The ministry is committed to ensuring that hospitals maintain high standards of security and transparency, which include safeguarding patients from exploitation and fraud.
“These steps are necessary to restore public confidence in our healthcare system and protect the integrity of the institutions serving our citizens,” Murkomen said. “We are also working closely with the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, and the Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Amin Mohammed, to ensure that all relevant parties are held accountable for any wrongdoing.”
In addition to addressing hospital security, Murkomen reiterated the government’s commitment to tackling illicit brew and counterfeit alcohol—issues that have been linked to organized crime in various regions of the country.
The CS directed National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs) and the National Police Service (NPS) to intensify their efforts to eradicate illegal alcohol production, which has contributed to significant public health concerns.
Murkomen also addressed the ongoing investigation into the organ harvesting scandal, stating that while no specific complaints had been formally lodged yet, the Ministry of Health, led by CS Aden Duale, had formed a taskforce to look into the issue and provide recommendations for the way forward.
“We will act based on the taskforce’s findings and ensure that those responsible are prosecuted,” Murkomen stated.
