The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has announced a nationwide crackdown on unlicensed medical and dental practitioners operating in the country.
In a public notice issued on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, KMPDC CEO Dr. David Kariuki warned that it is a serious offence to employ or engage any medical, dental, or community oral health practitioner who is not registered and licensed by the Council.
“Employing or engaging any practitioner, whether a Kenyan or a foreign national, without KMPDC registration and licensing is illegal,” said Dr. Kariuki.
“Foreign practitioners must only operate at the location specified in their license. Health institutions must inform the Council before engaging any foreign practitioner—regardless of their licensure status.”
The Council further stated that all foreign practitioners, including those pursuing postgraduate studies in Kenya, must register with KMPDC before they are allowed to work or study in any health facility. This is necessary for proper assessment and issuance of licenses.
“Any unregistered or unlicensed practitioner currently working in your health facility must be reported to the Council immediately,” the notice added.
According to the KMPDC, practicing without being properly registered and licensed is a criminal offence. Offenders risk a fine of up to Sh5 million, a prison term of up to five years, or both. Health facility managers who knowingly employ or engage such practitioners face an even steeper penalty of up to Sh10 million, five years in jail, or both.
“The Council is committed to ensuring only qualified and licensed practitioners operate in Kenya,” said Dr. Kariuki. “Failure to comply with these regulations endangers public safety and undermines trust in the health sector.”
KMPDC has launched ongoing inspections and audits of health facilities across the country, including a special review of all foreign medical practitioners, to enforce full compliance with licensing laws.
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