Dr Evanson Kamuri’s Exit From KNH Raises Procurement Questions
The recent removal of Dr Evanson Kamuri as Chief Executive Officer of Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has triggered widespread debate within Kenya’s health sector.
While the Ministry of Health has described the move as part of a routine leadership transition ahead of his scheduled retirement, the timing and circumstances have prompted questions from stakeholders.
At the centre of the controversy is a Sh400 million oxygen plant project reportedly procured by the Ministry without direct involvement of KNH management.
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A Sudden Exit Before Terminal Leave
Dr Kamuri was reportedly weeks away from proceeding on terminal leave in October. Insiders say he had already begun preparing for transition.
Ordinarily, such leadership changes follow structured succession planning. However, his abrupt removal before the end of his tenure has fueled speculation that other factors may have influenced the decision.
The Ministry has not publicly indicated that disciplinary issues or misconduct informed the move.
The Sh400 Million Oxygen Plant
Oxygen infrastructure is critical for referral hospitals, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic exposed weaknesses in supply systems nationwide.
The Ministry of Health reportedly handled the procurement of a Sh400 million oxygen plant intended for KNH facilities.
However, concerns have emerged regarding:
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The extent of KNH’s involvement in initiating or approving the procurement
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The procurement model used
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Oversight mechanisms applied
Sources within the health sector claim KNH management was not centrally involved in the transaction, raising governance questions.
The Ministry has not publicly responded to detailed concerns regarding the procurement structure.
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Fixed Fee Contract (FFC) Model Under Scrutiny
Reports indicate that the oxygen plant may have been procured under a Fixed Fee Contract (FFC) model.
While FFC arrangements are not inherently irregular, procurement experts note that such contracts require:
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Clear value-for-money assessments
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Competitive bidding transparency
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Institutional consultation
Critics argue that excluding hospital leadership from key procurement decisions can weaken internal accountability structures.
Broader Governance Questions
The situation has reignited long-standing concerns about procurement oversight within Kenya’s public health institutions.
Public hospitals often operate under financial strain, and large capital projects frequently attract scrutiny due to their size and complexity.
Observers note that institutional autonomy and clear procurement procedures are critical to maintaining public trust.
Ministry’s Position
Official communication from the Ministry frames Dr Kamuri’s departure as part of normal succession planning.
No formal allegations of wrongdoing have been made against him.
The Ministry has not publicly acknowledged any irregularities in the oxygen plant procurement.
Why the Issue Matters
Kenyatta National Hospital is the largest referral hospital in East and Central Africa. Decisions affecting its leadership and procurement processes carry national implications.
The oxygen plant project, if properly implemented, could strengthen critical care capacity. However, transparency in procurement remains essential to avoid:
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Inflated project costs
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Operational inefficiencies
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Institutional governance disputes
As Kenya continues reforming its health system, leadership stability and procurement transparency will remain key pillars of public confidence.
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