KMPDC shuts 544 health facilities, cancels 454 licenses over non-compliance

The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has closed 544 health facilities and revoked the licenses of 454 hospitals across the country after finding them non-compliant with medical regulations.

The action was made public through a gazette notice issued on Friday, August 29.

In a statement, the regulator said the closures were carried out in line with Section 15 (11) and Section 22 (5) of the law.

“It is notified for the general information of the public that the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council, in accordance with section 15 (11) and section 22 (5), has closed the following premises for being used as health institutions without being duly registered or licensed, as stated below,” read the notice.

The council revealed that some facilities employed unregistered practitioners, while others lacked critical infrastructure such as laboratories, maternity units, or pharmacies.

Poor sanitation and waste management were also identified as risks to patients.

The enforcement was guided by the Inspections and Licensing Rules, 2022, under the Medical Practitioners and Dentists Act (CAP 253), which outlines how facilities are regulated, inspected, and licensed annually.

According to the council, the move followed an inspection exercise of 288 health facilities conducted on August 29, 2025.

The exercise led to the suspension of 158 facilities, the downgrading of 28, while 105 were allowed to continue operating.

KMPDC said it will publish the names of all institutions found to be in violation in order to alert the public.

The council added that this will help patients identify hospitals that meet the required standards and avoid those that put their health at risk.

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• KMPDC shuts 544 health facilities
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