Cabinet Secretary for Health Nakhumicha Wafula has named corruption and unethical conduct as pressing issues within the implementation of healthcare projects in Kenya.
She made the remarks during the launch of the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) Survey Report, which aims to assess the nature and extent of these challenges in the health sector.
During her address, CS Nakhumicha expressed her concern about the detrimental effects of corruption on the country’s healthcare system.
Referring to the recent National Survey on Corruption and Ethics Report, she highlighted the Ministry of Health’s ranking as the second-most corrupt institution, further confirming the need for immediate action.
The CS acknowledged the appointment of Dr David Oginde as the Chairperson of the EACC and commended the commission’s efforts in promptly initiating investigations into the Kenya Medical Supplies Agency (KEMSA), where corruption allegations have been raised.
She also expressed hope for the timely completion of these investigations.
Accountability and transparency
The launch of the EACC Survey Report assumes great significance as it sheds light on the magnitude and scope of corruption and unethical conduct in healthcare project implementation.
The findings and recommendations from the report will inform various legal, policy, and administrative interventions to address these systemic issues.
Further, CS Nakhumicha emphasized the need for improved accountability and transparency in the delivery of healthcare services.
The government has already taken measures to combat corruption, including the recent approval of the Conflict of Interest Bill, 2023 by the Cabinet, which aims to address conflicts of interest in procurement and financial management related to health projects.
She also called for a collective effort in addressing corruption and unethical conduct in the healthcare sector.
The launch of the EACC Survey Report marks an important milestone in the fight against these issues.
“The Ministry of Health is committed to studying the report’s recommendations and implementing necessary measures to ensure integrity, transparency, and accountability in healthcare project implementation,” the Health CS noted.
