MPs Probe Illegal Kidney Transplants in Eldoret
In MTRH, the committee commended the leadership of the hospital for providing specialized transplant services in the face of adversity.
The committee, chaired by Chairperson Dr. James Nyikal, started an investigation with a visit to MTRH, a trailblazer public health institution with top-notch kidney and corneal transplant services.
By Mercy Chelangat
The Health Committee of the National Assembly has begun an investigation into illegal kidney transplant operations in hospitals in Eldoret, including Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH), St. Luke’s, Oak Tree, and Mediheal Hospital. The probe, which began yesterday 28th August 2025, is aimed at determining the extent of illegal kidney transplant operations and fostering adherence to ethical and regulatory guidelines in the region.
The committee, chaired by Chairperson Dr. James Nyikal, made a starting point of its investigation with an inspection of MTRH, a trailblazing public health facility with renowned kidney and corneal transplant services. Second visits were undertaken at St. Luke’s and Oak Tree hospitals, while inspection at Mediheal Hospital is to be undertaken today 29th August 2025, after previous issues of noncompliance with procedure.
The committee visits are all part of an effort to address claims of linking some of the hospitals in Uasin Gishu County to illegal kidney trade cartels, a matter that has drawn national attention. Even as some of the hospital officials have protested their innocence, the parliamentary team will be aimed at finding facts and making recommendations accordingly.
In MTRH, the committee commended the leadership of the hospital for providing specialized transplant services in the face of adversity. “What we have seen here is proof that public health facilities can provide world-class services when they are given proper support and leadership,” said Dr. Nyikal during the visit.
Board Chairman Mr. Sitoyo Lopokoiyit pointed to the hospital’s compliance with transparency and standard of care. The committee questioning coincides with there being additional government push toward regulating transplant operations, increasing Universal Health Coverage (UHC), and standardizing the Social Health Authority (SHA) programs.
Mediheal Hospital, a private health facility that previously had been set for suspension due to compliance issues, continues to be tightly watched. Today’s visit by the committee aims to ascertain whether Mediheal has corrected past blunders and whether its operations with the law.
The inquiry ongoing, the National Assembly Health Committee urges all medical providers to fully cooperate, calling for one voice against illegal organ trade while providing safe and accessible transplant services across Kenya.
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