KMA seeks stronger protection for health workers following alleged assault at Muthaiga hospital

Kenya Medical Association (KMA) President Dr Ibrahim Matende speaking at a past event. (Photo: Ibrahim Matende/Facebook)

By Rachael Mutabasi
Wednesday, June 10, 2026

The association said the incident reflects a broader and growing concern over violence against medical personnel in Kenya, warning that repeated cases are putting both staff and patients at risk and undermining healthcare delivery across the country.

The Kenya Medical Association (KMA) has urged the government to strengthen security in health facilities following the alleged assault and intimidation of healthcare workers at Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital in Muthaiga on June 5, 2026.

In a statement, the association said the incident reflects a broader and growing concern over violence against medical personnel in Kenya, warning that repeated cases are putting both staff and patients at risk and undermining healthcare delivery across the country.

KMA called on the Ministry of Health and county governments to establish enforceable security standards in all health facilities, including deployment of trained security personnel and clear response protocols for violent incidents.

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“Each incident that passes without consequence normalises this conduct and makes healthcare facilities less safe for workers and patients alike,” Matende said.

The association further emphasised that while the public has a right to raise concerns about medical services, such grievances must be addressed lawfully.

“Kenyans have every right to seek answers and hold healthcare providers accountable through proper channels,” the statement reads, “however, taking the law into one’s own hands is criminal conduct.”

KMA said it is willing to work with government agencies and health institutions to develop long-term solutions, including improved security frameworks and policy enforcement mechanisms.

“We are willing to work with the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Internal Security, and health institutions to develop practical, lasting solutions, ” the association said.