In a landmark achievement for Kenya’s medical sector, Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH) has successfully performed its first kidney transplant, cementing its place among the few public hospitals capable of carrying out complex renal procedures.
The ground-breaking surgeries were performed on May 7th and 8th on two pairs of donors and recipients. All four patients are reported to be in stable condition and are currently recovering under close medical observation.
“This is a significant milestone not only for our hospital but also for the entire country,” said Dr. Zainab Gura, Chief Executive Officer of KUTRRH. “It marks the beginning of our journey in offering affordable, world-class renal care.”
With this achievement, KUTRRH becomes the third public hospital in Kenya to conduct kidney transplants, joining the ranks of Kenyatta National Hospital and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH).
Medical Services Principal Secretary Dr. Ouma Oluga, speaking during a press briefing at the hospital, emphasized the government’s commitment to scaling up organ transplant services. “All procedures — from transplant to post-operative care — are fully covered under the Social Health Authority (SHA),” he announced, urging patients on dialysis to register with SHA for support.
Dr. Oluga revealed that the government is aiming for at least 200 renal transplants annually across six Level 6 public hospitals. He underscored the economic impact of the initiative: “Kenya spends over Sh10 billion annually on kidney transplants both abroad and locally. One transplant alone costs about Sh1.3 million, but with improved local capacity, we can significantly cut these expenses.”
Board Chairman Kembi Gitura echoed the sentiment, calling on public hospitals to strengthen collaboration to reduce medical tourism. “This is the kind of progress that will keep Kenyans from seeking treatment overseas,” he said.
The complex surgeries were led by Dr. Njogu Maina, a veteran kidney specialist and consultant physician, in collaboration with specialists from MTRH. He disclosed that one of the transplant recipients was a 47-year-old woman, who received a kidney from a 50-year-old male donor.
“The operation was the result of three years of intense preparation, and we’re proud to say the outcomes so far are excellent,” Dr. Maina remarked.
KUTRRH has already lined up a third transplant and is preparing four more patient pairs for upcoming procedures, signaling a promising future for kidney care in Kenya.
This pioneering step reaffirms Kenya’s commitment to improving its healthcare system and offering hope to thousands battling kidney disease.
