First kidney transplants performed at national hospital
Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH) achieved a medical milestone by performing its first successful kidney transplants on May 7–8, 2025. This development, following three years of preparation and staff training, significantly expands specialized care in Kenya.
A significant advancement in Kenya's healthcare capabilities was celebrated as Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH) successfully performed its first-ever kidney transplant surgeries on May 7–8, 2025. This achievement is a landmark moment, greatly expanding access to specialized medical care within the country.
The two successful transplant operations were hailed as a major milestone. Medical Services Principal Secretary Ouma Oluga officially inaugurated the state-of-the-art transplant unit, accompanied by KUTRRH CEO Zeinab Gura and Board Chairman Kembi Gitura. PS Oluga highlighted the extensive preparations undertaken by the hospital over three years, which included specialized training for medical staff in India, the acquisition of advanced surgical and diagnostic equipment, and crucial collaborative partnerships with experienced specialists from Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital.
This dedication to building local capacity underscores a commitment to reducing the need for Kenyans to seek such complex medical procedures abroad. The hospital has already identified and prepared another donor-recipient pair for a future kidney transplant surgery, indicating a sustained effort to make this life-saving treatment more routinely available.
