Kenya has made a significant step forward in healthcare with the successful launch of kidney transplant services at the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH). The hospital carried out its first two kidney transplant surgeries on the 7th and 8th of May 2025, marking a milestone in the country’s ability to provide specialized renal care. Both the recipients and donors of the surgeries are reportedly recovering well post-surgery, a positive outcome that signifies the hospital’s growing capacity in this crucial area of healthcare.
The official inauguration of the kidney transplant services was accompanied by a press briefing led by the Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga. He commended the KUTRRH team for reaching this remarkable achievement and acknowledged the collective effort that went into setting up the transplant center. He was joined at the briefing by the Acting CEO of KUTRRH, Ms. Zeinab Gura, and Senator Kembi Gitura, the Chairperson of the Board of Directors, all of whom praised the commitment of the team and the hospital’s progress in enhancing healthcare services in Kenya.
The establishment of the renal transplant center at KUTRRH has been a process that took over three years to complete. During this time, the hospital worked diligently to create a comprehensive program for kidney transplantation. This process involved a number of critical steps, including the training of medical staff at Apollo Hospital in India, a leading medical institution specializing in renal care. Additionally, the hospital invested in acquiring state-of-the-art medical equipment required for transplant surgeries. The collaboration with international kidney specialists and the establishment of partnerships with other medical institutions, such as Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH), has been crucial in ensuring the sustainability of the program and ensuring that KUTRRH is equipped with the necessary expertise and support.
The surgeries were carried out in collaboration with a team of kidney specialists from Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, who will continue to provide mentorship as KUTRRH develops its internal capabilities in renal care. This partnership will ensure that the hospital can provide ongoing quality services in kidney transplants and renal care. The hospital’s internal capacity will be enhanced through this mentorship, ensuring the continuity of the services for patients requiring kidney transplant procedures.
Currently, the transplant program is progressing well, with one donor-recipient pair already prepared for the next kidney transplant. Furthermore, eight additional donor-recipient pairs are undergoing evaluations at the transplant clinic, highlighting the demand for this essential service. The successful launch of kidney transplant services at KUTRRH not only addresses the growing demand for kidney transplants in Kenya but also opens doors for more patients to access life-saving procedures.
One of the most significant aspects of this development is its alignment with the government’s goals for Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Through the involvement of the Social Health Authority (SHA), the financial burden on patients has been alleviated, making kidney transplant surgeries more accessible to those in need. By reducing the financial barriers to these essential treatments, the government has taken a step toward ensuring equitable healthcare access for all Kenyans, particularly those in need of expensive but life-saving kidney transplant surgeries.
The successful launch of kidney transplant services at KUTRRH is a groundbreaking achievement for the healthcare system in Kenya. It not only highlights the country’s growing healthcare capacity but also reflects the dedication of the medical professionals involved in the development of this program. With ongoing mentorship, training, and partnerships, KUTRRH is poised to become a key player in providing renal care services in Kenya, helping to address the growing need for kidney transplants and ensuring that more patients can receive the specialized care they need for a better quality of life.
