NAIROBI, Kenya – The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has launched investigations into claims of faith-based healing during Prophet David Owuor’s end-of-year crusade in Nakuru County.
In a statement seen by news9.africa, KMPDC disclosed that it was working closely with the Ministry of Health and other regulatory bodies to investigate these claims.
“Appropriate actions will be taken against practitioners for health professionals to safeguard public health, uphold medical ethics and protect citizens from misinformation,” the statement reads in part.
According to KMPDC, these include potential legal measures against any practices that endanger lives or violate health regulations.
News9.africa understands that during the prayer meeting dubbed Menengai 8, and presided over by Prophet Owuor of the Repentance and Holiness Ministry, several of his followers were ‘healed’ of serious medical conditions, including HIV/Aids, cancer, blindness, deafness, muteness and physical disabilities.
“These claims, attributed to certain medical practitioners during a religious crusade in Nakuru, have raised profound concerns regarding public health safety and professional ethics. The Council unequivocally condemns such statements by medical practitioners, which are based on unverified claims,” KMPDC further said.
According to KMPDC, evidence-based medicine is paramount, noting that all medical treatments and interventions must be grounded in scientific evidence, rigorous testing, and regulatory approval.
“Claims of healing for chronic or life-threatening conditions, such as HIV/Aids or cancer, require verifiable medical documentation and cannot be accepted without independent verification by health professionals. They may mislead vulnerable individuals and deter them from seeking proven therapies, potentially leading to worsened health outcomes, drug resistance, or loss of life,” the statement reads.
How has KMPDC advised members of the public?
Additionally, KMPDC observed that while faith and spiritual beliefs play an important role in many people’s lives, relying solely on unverified healing methods for serious illnesses can pose grave risks.
“KMPDC solely on unverified healing methods for serious illness can pose grave risks. KMPDC strongly advises the public against abandoning prescribed medical treatments, such as for HIV/Aids, diabetes, hypertension, epilepsy and other chronic conditions, in favour of unproven alternatives, as such actions contradict established public health guidelines,” KMPDC added.
Following the claims, KMPDC moved to reassure the public that Kenya’s healthcare system is robust, with investments in public health education, access to antiretroviral therapy, cancer care, treatment for chronic medical conditions and medical research ensuring that evidence-based care is available to all.
“We urge Kenyans to report any suspicious claims to the relevant authorities for verification. Your health and well-being remain our top priority, and we are committed to fostering a safe, informed and ethical healthcare environment,” the Council said.
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