The Ministry of Health, through the Independent Investigative Committee on Tissue and Organ Transplant Services, has launched a nationwide public participation campaign aimed at gathering views on the state of cell, tissue and organ transplant services in the country.
Appointed by the Cabinet Secretary for Health, Aden Duale, via a Gazette Notice, the committee is mandated to assess the legal, ethical and clinical practices in tissue and organ transplant services across health facilities in the country.
The committee will also investigate any non-compliant transplant services offered within these facilities.
The Ministry has invited all citizens to share information and proposals under four main areas, including unethical or illegal practices related to tissue and organ transplants, solutions to challenges affecting the sector, including political, economic, technical and legal barriers.
Other areas are citizen experiences with these services and any relevant academic, legal or policy frameworks.
The public is encouraged to submit written memoranda via email to [email protected] or through WhatsApp on 0113 447746 before Friday, June 20, 2025.
Additionally, in-person public hearings will be held in various counties between June 5 and June 27, 2025.
The schedule includes Vihiga on June 5, Uasin Gishu (Eldoret) from June 9 to June 12, Bomet on June 17, Meru on June 18, Nakuru and Kisumu on June 20, Nairobi on June 26 and June 27, and Mombasa on June 27.
The forums will take place at different times in each county as specified by the Ministry, with some from 2 pm to 5 pm, at other areas from 9 am to 1 pm, and from 9 am to 4 pm.
The committee is chaired by Elizabeth Bukusi and includes 13 appointed members.
It will use the information gathered to inform its investigation and make appropriate recommendations on improving tissue and organ transplant services in the country.
As the committee conducts the public participation, the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Health is also conducting a parallel 90-day investigation into allegations of illegal organ transplants and trafficking, following an exposé.
