Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa has expressed her condolences following the untimely death of Desiree Moraa, a medical intern at Gatundu Level 5 Hospital.
The 27-year-old medical doctor was found dead in her apartment on Sunday, September 22, 2024, with a rope tied around her neck.
CS Barasa described Dr. Moraa as a young and dedicated healthcare professional, whose life was tragically cut short.
“It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of loss that we mourn the untimely passing of Dr. Desree Moraa, a young, dedicated healthcare professional with so much potential, but whose life was tragically cut short. Words cannot fully capture the profound sorrow and shock of losing someone so young, dedicated, and full of potential,” Barasa said.
She highlighted the impact Desree Moraa had already made in her short time as a medical intern, commending her for the compassion and commitment she demonstrated in her work.
“As a medical intern, she had already touched so many lives with her compassion and commitment to the healthcare profession,” Barasa noted.
The CS also highlighted that Moraa’s death underscores the hidden challenges that many people, including healthcare professionals, frequently face.
“Her passing is a stark reminder of the silent struggles that many, including those in the healthcare profession, often endure. As a frontline caregiver, she was devoted to improving the lives of others, yet we are reminded that even those who provide care sometimes face unseen battles of their own,” she added.
Barasa called attention to the mental health challenges that many healthcare workers face, announcing that the Ministry of Health, in partnership with County Governments, will implement workplace mental wellness programs targeting healthcare professionals.
“This tragedy calls upon us to renew our commitment to addressing the growing mental health burden in our country. In honor of her memory, the Ministry of Health, in conjunction with County Governments, is implementing robust workplace mental wellness programs targeting healthcare workers across the country to ensure that support systems are strengthened and that those facing challenges don’t feel alone.”
She offered her deepest condolences to Moraa’s family, friends, and colleagues while urging them to find comfort during this difficult time.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Health, I extend our deepest condolences to Dr. Moraa’s family, friends, and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time. May her soul rest in eternal peace, and may her family find comfort and strength during this time of mourning,” she said.
