The East African Kidney Institute (EAKI) in Nairobi is nearing completion, signaling a major milestone in Kenya’s pursuit of accessible and specialized healthcare for all. Once operational, the institute will stand as the first regional center of excellence dedicated to kidney and urology care, positioning Kenya as a leader in advanced renal treatment within East Africa.
Strategically located next to Kenyatta National Hospital, the state-of-the-art facility is designed to enhance the country’s capacity for diagnosis, treatment, training, and research in kidney-related conditions. It will feature 160 beds, including 10 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and 9 High Dependency Unit (HDU) beds, alongside 28 dialysis machines. These facilities are expected to ease the growing demand for dialysis and transplants, offering much-needed relief to thousands of patients who travel long distances or endure extended waiting periods for treatment.
Beyond patient care, EAKI will also serve as a major academic and research hub under the University of Nairobi. The institute will provide training opportunities for medical professionals across the region, nurturing a new generation of nephrology and urology specialists. This integration of research, education, and clinical care will strengthen the region’s capacity to address the rising burden of kidney disease, a condition increasingly linked to hypertension, diabetes, and lifestyle factors.
The government’s prioritization of the project reflects a broader commitment to Universal Health Coverage (UHC). By expanding access to quality, specialized treatment, EAKI aims to ensure that critical healthcare services are within reach for every Kenyan, regardless of income or geography. It also aligns with regional efforts under the East African Community (EAC) framework, which seeks to establish centers of excellence in various medical fields to reduce outbound medical tourism and promote self-sufficiency in healthcare delivery.
Once commissioned, the East African Kidney Institute is expected to ease pressure on Kenyatta National Hospital by handling complex renal cases and providing referral services for patients from across East Africa. Its completion marks a transformative step toward equitable, affordable, and world-class healthcare — a beacon of hope for thousands battling kidney disease across the region.
