KNH conducts first cochlear implant surgeries on 50 children
The surgeries, carried out in collaboration with Moroccan specialists, mark a major milestone in paediatric hearing care, bringing advanced treatment previously only available in private facilities to public hospitals.
Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has conducted its first cochlear implant surgeries in Kenya’s public health system, offering 50 children with severe hearing loss the chance to hear for the first time.
The surgeries, carried out in collaboration with Moroccan specialists, mark a major milestone in paediatric hearing care, bringing advanced treatment previously only available in private facilities to public hospitals.
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The week-long surgical mission, which concludes on Friday, November 7, 2025, is expected to restore hearing and transform the lives of young patients and their families, symbolising hope, connection and a brighter, inclusive future.
The achievement was made possible through a partnership between the Voice of Children initiative, led by First Lady Rachel Ruto, and the Princess Lalla Asmaa Foundation of Morocco, which donated cochlear implant devices valued at over Sh120 million.
During a State banquet at the State House on Wednesday, Rachel Ruto expressed her gratitude to Princess Lalla for her support.
“We extend our deepest appreciation to Her Royal Highness Princess Lalla Asmaa of the Kingdom of Morocco, whose gracious support in advancing the cochlear implant programme has further strengthened the bonds of friendship between Kenya and Morocco,” she said, emphasising that the initiative will give children the precious gift of hearing.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale noted that the surgeries expand access to specialised paediatric care for children with disabilities.
“I commend the First Lady, Princess Lalla Asmaa and the medical teams for their exemplary service to humanity,” he said during the official launch of the Cochlear Implant Programme at KNH.
He added that the Ministry of Health remains committed to enhancing ear and hearing care as part of Universal Health Coverage.
“Cochlear implant surgeries are now covered under the Social Health Authority (SHA) benefit package. Through the AT Scale Project, the government has also equipped over 25 health facilities with hearing devices and diagnostic equipment, restoring hearing and dignity to many lives,” Duale said.
Cochlear implant surgery is a specialised procedure for patients with severe to profound hearing loss. It involves surgically implanting an electronic device into the cochlea to stimulate the auditory nerve, allowing patients to perceive sound and develop communication skills.
The launch was attended by several dignitaries, including Moroccan Ambassador Abderrazzak Laassel, Morocco’s Minister of Solidarity, Social Integration and Family Naima Ben Yahia, Gender CS Hanna Cheptumo, Medical Services PS Ouma Oluga, Nairobi County Deputy Governor James Muchiri and KNH Chairman Abbas Gullet.
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