The County Referral Hospital of Makueni has successfully performed its very first brain tumour surgery. This historic medical feat, once only possible in Nairobi’s leading referral hospitals, is a beacon of hope for residents who previously had to travel long distances for specialized neurosurgical care.
For months, a 69-year-old patient suffered from severe migraines and unpredictable seizures that affected his quality of life. Fearful of the worst, he sought treatment at Makueni County Referral Hospital, a facility historically known for providing basic healthcare services. But behind the hospital’s walls, something extraordinary was underway a high-risk neurosurgical operation that would change the face of healthcare in the region.
The surgery, which lasted over six hours, was expertly led by Consultant Neurosurgeon Dr. Muthoka Mativo alongside Dr. Angela Murunga. Their mission was clear but challenging: remove the life-threatening brain tumour while preserving critical brain function. The procedure was a success, marking a major leap forward in the hospital’s capabilities.
County health officials hailed the achievement not just as a medical victory but as the realization of a broader policy vision to improve access to advanced medical care within the county. This operation underscores the county’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure, enhancing specialist training, and reducing the need for patients to travel to Nairobi for complex procedures.
The patient is now recovering steadily, surrounded by family, culture, and community a testament to the holistic approach that the hospital embraces in patient care. This milestone surgery transforms Makueni County Referral Hospital from a last resort into a first hope for many suffering from complex neurological conditions.
With this success, the future looks brighter for thousands in the region who can now access world-class neurosurgical care closer to home, paving the way for more specialized treatments and improved health outcomes across the county.
