The Ministry of Health has initiated a nationwide inspection of facilities offering invasive cosmetic procedures in response to the recent death of a patient during surgery. The comprehensive review aims to uphold safety and professional standards in the burgeoning cosmetic sector.
A joint team of health regulators, led by the Kenya Health Professions Oversight Authority, will assess 126 beauty and medical spas and 34 plastic surgery centers across Nairobi, Nakuru, Eldoret, and Mombasa. This follows the tragic passing of Ms. Lucy Wambui, who succumbed to complications from a cosmetic procedure.
“The State Department of Public Health and Professional Standards is fully committed to ensuring that all Kenyans have access to safe, high-quality healthcare services provided by qualified professionals at duly licensed institutions,” the Ministry stated.
The inspections will evaluate whether facilities adhere to safety guidelines, ethical practices, and staffing requirements. Facilities failing to meet these standards risk “strict penalties, including possible closure and legal action.”
In a statement signed by Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni Muriuki, the Ministry extended its condolences to the family of Ms. Wambui, reaffirming its commitment to preventing similar incidents. “We remain firm in our mission to strengthen regulatory measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The State Department will continue to monitor and enforce standards in healthcare delivery across the country to safeguard the wellbeing of all Kenyans,” Muriuki said.
The statement also urged the public to seek services only from licensed facilities staffed by certified professionals. “We remind all healthcare providers to strictly follow health regulations, prioritize patient safety, and uphold ethical practices,” it added.
Health officials underscored the importance of this initiative for public safety, given the rising demand for cosmetic enhancements. The targeted facilities face close scrutiny over operational licensing, professional qualifications, and compliance with ethical and safety protocols.
