Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has achieved a major medical breakthrough after successfully performing a world-first facial reconstruction surgery on a six-year-old boy who was severely injured in a bandit attack in 2023.
The hospital confirmed on Friday that the young survivor, Baby Ian Baraka, is now in stable condition and recovering well following the complex craniofacial surgery.
“Today, Kenyatta National Hospital was honoured to present Baby Ian Baraka to the public after a successful world-first reconstructive surgery to heal injuries sustained during a bandit attack,” KNH announced in a statement on X.
Acting CEO Dr Richard Lesiyampe commended the team for their skill and compassion, noting that the success marks a new chapter in Kenya’s medical innovation.
“Baby Ian’s recovery symbolises what is possible when expertise, innovation, and compassion come together,” Dr Lesiyampe said during a press briefing.
Ian sustained severe facial injuries when a stray bullet struck him during a bandit attack along the Isiolo–Meru border in December 2023. Since then, he has undergone months of treatment and rehabilitation to restore his facial function and vision.
The groundbreaking procedure 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 hospital also hailed Dr Branice Munyasha, a resident surgeon who raised funds for the surgery by running two marathons to support Ian’s treatment.
KNH described the surgery as a landmark achievement in reconstructive medicine, demonstrating Kenya’s growing capacity to handle advanced medical procedures locally.
The hospital is expected to share detailed clinical outcomes in coming weeks, as Ian continues his full recovery journey surrounded by family and medical caregivers.
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