NAIROBI, Kenya, April 25 – The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has raised alarm over mounting allegations of human organ trafficking in the country, citing serious concerns over suspected illegal kidney transplants reportedly conducted at Mediheal Hospital in Eldoret.
In a strongly worded statement, the LSK criticized the Ministry of Health for what it termed as inaction and lack of transparency, despite early warnings from local and international medical bodies.
The Society referenced a letter from the Transplantation Society in July 2023 and a subsequent joint press statement issued in May 2024 by the Kenya Renal Association, Kenya Association of Urological Surgeons, and other health groups, flagging unethical practices at the facility.
According to the LSK, the issue resurfaced with renewed urgency following a German documentary aired on April 14, 2025, which exposed what it described as a global network of organ trafficking operations, including activities allegedly linked to Kenya.
The Society expressed concern that a Ministry of Health-appointed multidisciplinary team conducted a fact-finding mission at Mediheal in December 2023, but its report was not made public.
The LSK described this as either “lethargy or complicity” and urged the Ministry to release the findings without delay.
“Organ trafficking is a gross violation of the right to dignity, health, and potentially life,” said Faith Odhiambo, President of the Law Society of Kenya.
She called for the urgent formulation of clear transplant regulations under the Health Act, 2017, and robust public consultation on the same.
The LSK also welcomed ongoing investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) but raised concerns about alleged threats and intimidation against victims and witnesses.
The Society called on the National Police Service and Victims Protection Board to provide adequate protection.
Additionally, the LSK urged the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) to tighten oversight of foreign practitioners operating in Kenya, warning that the country risks becoming a haven for unregulated medical activities.
The statement concluded with a call for inclusion of civil society and professional bodies in any future audit processes to ensure transparency and public confidence in Kenya’s healthcare system.
