KNH make world history with life-saving surgery on boy disfigured in bandit attack
Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has achieved a global medical milestone after successfully performing a groundbreaking facial reconstruction surgery on a young boy disfigured during a bandit attack in 2023.
The pioneering nine-hour procedure, conducted on Thursday, September 25, 2025, involved a multidisciplinary team of KNH and University of Nairobi specialists and is believed to be the first of its kind worldwide.
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In a statement shared on X on Friday, September 26, 2025, the hospital revealed that the patient, seven-year-old Ian Baraka, sustained severe facial injuries on December 23, 2023, at the Isiolo-Meru border when armed bandits attacked villagers, and a stray bullet struck his face.
“Kenyatta National Hospital has successfully conducted a nine-hour, first-of-its-kind reconstructive surgery to restore the face of a young boy disfigured during a bandit attack in 2023,” the hospital wrote.
This follows the hospital’s first-ever successful laparoscopic surgery.
They noted that since the attack, Ian had undergone extensive treatment and rehabilitation for injuries affecting his eyes and lower jaw.
The intricate craniofacial surgery aimed to restore both function and appearance, and is a procedure that demanded exceptional skill and coordination from the surgical team.
They noted that the surgery 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 the contribution of Dr. Branice Munyasha, a resident in Maxillofacial Surgery, who raised funds for the procedure by running two marathons.
“The pioneering procedure was performed by a dedicated multidisciplinary team led by Prof. Symon Guthua (Lead Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon), Dr. Margaret Mwasha (Lead Consultant Prosthodontist), and Dr. Andrew Okiriamu (Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon). Special thanks also goes out to Dr Branice Munyasha, a resident student, Maxillofacial Surgery, who ran two marathons to raise funds for lan’s procedure.”
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The hospital’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Richard Lesiyampe, commended the surgical team for their expertise, dedication, and courage.
He said the successful operation not only highlights KNH’s technical capabilities but also positions Kenya as a global leader in specialized medical care.
“This milestone demonstrates our surgeons’ skill and determination, and it is a message of hope to patients across Africa and beyond,” he said.
Ian Baraka is currently admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and remains under close medical supervision.
KNH further pledged to provide updates on his recovery while ensuring the privacy and well-being of his family.
“KNH will continue to share updates on lan’s recovery in due course, while respecting the privacy and well-being of his family,” their presser added.
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Steve Ireri
Steve is a senior writer with over four years of experience in digital journalism. His focus is on the showbiz and human interest stories. Emails: [email protected] , [email protected]
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