KU Hospital Performs First Kidney Transplants, Enhancing Specialized Care
May 10, 2025 — Nairobi, Kenya
Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH) has successfully carried out its first-ever kidney transplants, marking a major milestone in Kenya’s growing capacity for specialized medical care. The landmark procedures were performed earlier this month and have been hailed as a breakthrough in public healthcare delivery.
Hospital officials confirmed that two transplant surgeries were conducted successfully, with both patients and donors recovering well. The surgeries were led by a team of Kenyan specialists, supported by visiting experts as part of a knowledge-transfer initiative aimed at building long-term capacity in renal and transplant medicine.
“This achievement reflects our commitment to becoming a center of excellence in specialized healthcare,” said KUTRRH CEO Dr. Olive Mugenda. “It demonstrates that Kenyans no longer have to travel abroad to access life-saving organ transplants.”
The hospital, which was established as a Level 6 facility to complement Kenyatta National Hospital, has been steadily expanding its range of services. With the launch of kidney transplant services, KUTRRH joins a small but growing list of institutions in Kenya offering advanced organ replacement therapies.
Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha congratulated the medical team and reaffirmed the government’s support for strengthening specialized services in public hospitals. “This is a proud moment for the country,” she said. “We are witnessing the results of sustained investment in health infrastructure and training under the Universal Health Coverage agenda.”
The success of the procedures is expected to reduce the burden on patients who previously had to seek kidney transplants in India, South Africa, or Europe — a costly and logistically challenging process. Kenya has seen a growing number of patients suffering from end-stage kidney disease, with thousands relying on dialysis and awaiting transplants.
KUTRRH plans to scale up its transplant program in the coming months, with a target of performing at least 50 transplants annually. The hospital also aims to establish a national organ donor registry and enhance post-transplant care.
Health experts say the development is a significant step toward localizing complex medical procedures and ensuring equitable access to care.
“This is not just about surgery,” said Dr. Joseph Ndirangu, a nephrologist involved in the procedures. “It’s about giving Kenyans a second chance at life — right here at home.”
