KNH conducts complex facial reconstruction surgery on young boy injured in Isiolo-Meru bandit attack
The procedure aimed to restore both function and appearance to the boy’s face following the severe injuries he sustained in the attack, which affected his eyes and lower jaw.
Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has performed a successful facial reconstruction surgery on a 7-year-old boy who was disfigured when a stray bullet struck him during a bandit attack at the Isiolo-Meru border in 2023.
The complex nine-hour surgery, carried out on September 25, 2025, involved a multidisciplinary team of KNH and University of Nairobi specialists.
More To Read
- Senators sound alarm over overcrowding, security lapses at KNH
- Voluntary disarmament gaining momentum in North Rift, at least 100 firearms surrendered
- Mounting debt could halt vital services at KNH, MTRH and KUTRRH - Nancy Gathungu
- Court orders Mbagathi Hospital to resume treating inmates amid payment dispute
- Auditor General flags Sh678 million losses at KNH from NHIF, Linda Mama contracts
- Richard Lesiyampe appointed Acting CEO of Kenyatta National Hospital
The procedure aimed to restore both function and appearance to the boy’s face following the severe injuries he sustained in the attack, which affected his eyes and lower jaw.
The patient, Ian Baraka, has been under extensive treatment and rehabilitation since the incident and is currently admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at KNH, where he remains under close medical supervision.
"The surgery involved intricate facial reconstruction to restore function and appearance, making it the first procedure of its kind worldwide. It showcases KNH's leadership in specialised care and the hospital's growing role as a centre of medical excellence on the African continent," said KNH.
The surgical team was led by Prof. Symon Guthua, Lead Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Dr Margaret Mwasha, Lead Consultant Prosthodontist, and Dr Andrew Okiriamu, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon.
The team also acknowledged contributions from Dr Branice Munyasha, a Maxillofacial Surgery resident, who ran two marathons to help raise funds for the procedure.
Dr Richard Lesiyampe, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Kenyatta National Hospital, highlighted the significance of the surgery, noting that it demonstrates KNH’s ability to perform complex reconstructive procedures and reflects Kenya’s growing expertise in specialised healthcare.
"This milestone demonstrates not only our surgeons' skill and determination, but also Kenya's rising leadership in specialised healthcare. It is a message of hope to patients across Africa and beyond," said Dr Lesiyampe.
KNH said it will continue to provide updates on Ian’s recovery while respecting the privacy and well-being of his family.
Top Stories Today
Reader Comments
Trending
