Mediheal officials questioned by organ transplant probe team in Eldoret

Lawyer Katwa Kigen speaking in Eldoret on June 9, 2025. /MATHEWS NDANYI

Officials from Mediheal Hospital have appeared before the Independent Investigative Committee on Tissue and Organ Transplant Services, which has begun its sittings in Eldoret.

The committee, chaired by Professor Elizabeth Bukusi, commenced its four-day session at the County Social Hall in Eldoret.

The Mediheal delegation was led by lawyer Katwa Kigen, who appeared in a closed-door session but later addressed the media.

“We had already submitted our documents and position as Mediheal, specifically regarding kidney transplants. Today, we also appeared to demonstrate our full willingness to cooperate in this matter,” Kigen said.

He added that the hospital's management remains available to clarify any issues, whether raised by the committee or any other investigating body.

Kigen also noted that Mediheal had presented its input on proposed legislation aimed at regulating organ and tissue transplant services in Kenya.

The hospital and its proprietor, Dr Swarrup Mishra, have been embroiled in controversy over alleged irregularities in kidney transplants. Kigen denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that the hospital only provided medical services to both donors and recipients.

Professor Bukusi explained that although the committee would collect views countrywide, Eldoret had been allocated four days due to the origin of the allegations and the presence of individuals who had already spoken out.

“This is because the issues and allegations of inappropriate transplants originated here, and we want to give all concerned parties in the region a chance to be heard,” she said.

Prof Elizabeth Bukusi, chairperson of the Independent Committee Investigating Organ and Tissue Transplantation Services speaking after chairing first sitting in Eldoret City, June 9, 2025. /MATHEWS NDANYI

She noted that most hearings would be conducted in private to protect the identities of those appearing before the committee, including both donors and recipients.

“This is a sensitive issue involving individuals’ private health matters, which must be safeguarded,” said Professor Bukusi.

She added that the committee would also visit regional hospitals involved in tissue and organ transplants to assess their facilities and gather feedback on the proposed legal framework.

“We want to determine whether transplants have been carried out in line with existing laws and health standards,” she said.

The committee’s mandate includes a thorough investigation of transplant services across the country to assess their appropriateness and compliance.

“We are also evaluating whether current legislation and policy frameworks are sufficient to ensure safe and ethical transplant services,” she added.

The committee will provide opportunities for individuals to share information both publicly and privately.

“We welcome input from anyone, not just donors or recipients, but also experts and others with relevant information,” said Professor Bukusi.

Appointed by the Cabinet Secretary for Health, the committee is expected to submit its report by July 22, 2025.