KNH Conduct First-of-its-Kind Surgery to Restore Boy’s Face

Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has successfully carried out a nine-hour reconstructive surgery to restore the face of a young boy who was disfigured during a bandit attack in 2023.

The complex craniofacial procedure, performed on September 25, 2025, by a joint team of KNH and University of Nairobi specialists, has been described as a global surgical milestone. Doctors said it was the first procedure of its kind worldwide, involving intricate facial reconstruction to restore both function and appearance.

KNH Chief Executive Officer Dr. Richard Lesiyampe praised the team for their achievement.

“This milestone demonstrates not only our surgeons’ skill and determination, but also Kenya’s rising leadership in specialized healthcare. It is a message of hope to patients across Africa and beyond,” Dr. Lesiyampe said.

The patient, seven-year-old Ian Baraka, is currently admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in stable condition. Ian was injured on December 23, 2023, at the Isiolo–Meru border when armed bandits attacked villagers and a stray bullet struck him in the face. He has since undergone several treatments and rehabilitation for damage to his eyes and lower jaw.

The groundbreaking operation was led by a multidisciplinary team including Prof. Symon Guthua (Lead Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon), Dr. Margaret Mwasha (Lead Consultant Prosthodontist), and Dr. Andrew Okiriam (Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon).