Kilifi County has made history after doctors at the Kilifi County Referral Hospital successfully delivered and operated on a set of conjoined twins, marking the facility’s first-ever successful surgery of its kind. The rare and delicate procedure represents a major breakthrough in the county’s healthcare system and demonstrates the growing capacity of local medical facilities to handle complex medical cases.
The twins, who were joined at the abdominal level, were safely delivered following a carefully coordinated and high-risk operation carried out by a multidisciplinary medical team. The specialists included experts in gynaecology, paediatric surgery, and paediatrics, supported by experienced maternity and High Dependency Unit (HDU) nurses.
Medical officials confirmed that both the mother and the newborns are in stable condition. Plans are underway to transfer them to Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) in Nairobi for further observation and specialised post-surgery care. The transfer will ensure that the infants receive comprehensive monitoring and continued medical support during their recovery phase.
The successful surgery has been hailed as a landmark achievement for Kilifi County and a reflection of the progress being made in strengthening devolved healthcare systems in Kenya. The hospital’s ability to perform such a delicate and rare procedure underscores the effectiveness of ongoing investments in medical infrastructure, professional training, and capacity building within the county’s health sector.
County leadership commended the medical team for their professionalism, teamwork, and commitment, noting that the operation symbolizes a new era for Kilifi’s healthcare services. The success also serves as an inspiration for other counties to continue upgrading their health facilities to ensure residents can access quality and advanced medical care close to home.
The Ministry of Health has also recognized the achievement as a national milestone, emphasizing that it reflects Kenya’s growing ability to manage complex medical cases at the county level. The event has renewed confidence in the decentralization of healthcare, highlighting how collaboration between county governments, medical experts, and the national health system can yield life-saving outcomes.
This historic success not only brings pride to Kilifi County but also marks a step forward in Kenya’s pursuit of equitable, affordable, and high-quality healthcare for all citizens.
