By Abigael Gioche
Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) has successfully carried out the first cochlear implant surgery in a public hospital in Kenya, marking a historic moment in the country’s healthcare sector.
“This is a turning point for patients with severe hearing loss who cannot afford care abroad or in private institutions,” said MTRH CEO Dr. Wilson Aruasa.
The surgery, led by a skilled multidisciplinary team from MTRH and Moi University School of Medicine, was performed on a patient with profound hearing loss.
The procedure involved implanting an electronic device that stimulates the auditory nerve, restoring a sense of sound to individuals who would otherwise remain deaf.
“This milestone proves that Kenyans no longer have to travel abroad or rely solely on private hospitals for such advanced care,” the CEO added.
The procedure was conducted under MTRH’s Cochlear Implant Programme, a new initiative aimed at increasing access to hearing restoration for underserved populations. The hospital now plans to scale up the service, integrate post-surgery rehabilitation, and train more specialists to handle follow-up care.
This achievement aligns with Kenya’s broader agenda to provide equitable access to specialized medical services, especially under Universal Health Coverage (UHC). It positions MTRH as a national hub for advanced ENT care and demonstrates the growing self-reliance of Kenya’s healthcare system.
Health experts and stakeholders have lauded the milestone, calling it a significant step toward reducing medical tourism and strengthening local expertise.
With this breakthrough, MTRH continues to build on its legacy of innovation, commitment to patient-centred care, and delivery of world-class treatment within the public sector.