Members of Parliament have raised concerns over a serious shortage of staff at the National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K), warning that it could affect the fight against cancer in the country.
The Public Investments Committee on Social Services, Administration and Agriculture (PIC-SSAA), chaired by Navakholo MP Emmanuel Wangwe, raised the issue during a meeting with the Institute’s management while reviewing Auditor-General reports.
According to the Auditor-General, the Institute has 247 approved staff positions, but only 33 had been filled by June 30, 2024—leaving 214 vacancies unfilled.
“In the circumstances, the inadequate staffing levels may have affected the effectiveness of achieving the Institute’s principal activities,” the report stated.
Responding to the concerns, the Institute’s CEO admitted the staffing crisis, saying the shortage was due to limited funding from the National Treasury.
“We agree with the auditor’s observation. We started the first phase of recruitment in June 2024 but couldn’t hire more due to budget limitations. We are now seeking approval for the second phase, even as we work within the government’s ongoing austerity measures,” said the CEO.
The management said they are working closely with the board to gradually increase the number of staff based on available resources.
The committee also raised concerns about the Institute’s board, which currently has ten members, beyond the recommended seven to nine.
“The board composition must be in line with the government’s governance framework,” the MPs said, urging the Institute to seek guidance from the Ministry of Health.
The committee also advised the Institute to prioritize hiring lower-level staff to support daily operations, and to streamline procurement and administrative processes to boost efficiency.
Committee Chair Emmanuel Wangwe stressed the critical role the Institute plays in battling cancer.
“You are a very, very vital institute, and that’s why I want to acknowledge you. Cancer is a terrible disease—it’s even worse than corruption,” Wangwe remarked.
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