Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has marked a major milestone in Kenya’s healthcare sector after successfully performing the country’s first Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy (MIE), a complex keyhole surgery that involved removing a patient’s entire esophagus and reconstructing a new food pipe.
The groundbreaking procedure was carried out on 43-year-old Joshua Wanzala, who had been diagnosed with esophageal cancer.
According to KNH, the seven-hour surgery was successfully performed on June 30, 2026, making Wanzala the first patient in Kenya to undergo the highly specialized procedure.
A Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy is primarily used to treat esophageal cancer.
During the operation, surgeons remove the diseased esophagus, reshape the patient’s stomach into a narrow tube, lift it into the chest, and connect it to the throat to create a new food passage.
The hospital said Wanzala is recovering well and has made encouraging progress, with doctors gradually introducing soft foods and fluids as part of his recovery.
“We are deeply grateful to Mr. Wanzala for choosing and trusting KNH with this life-changing journey,” the hospital said in a statement.
The historic operation was led by Consultant Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeons Dr. Joseph Mutie and Dr. Obed Makori, supported by a multidisciplinary team that included surgeons, anesthetists, theatre nurses, post-operative specialists, and nursing staff.
The surgical support team comprised Dr. Praxidice, Dr. Muthoni, and Dr. Yakub, while anesthesia was managed by Dr. Billow and Dr. P. Chelagat.
The theatre nursing team included Mr. Kitema, Mr. Onyari, and Mr. Collins, with post-operative medical oversight provided by Dr. L. Ooko. Nursing care during recovery was led by Ms. P. Anampiu, Ms. B. Githinji, and Ms. G. Theuri.
KNH described the successful surgery as a landmark achievement that highlights the growing expertise of Kenyan medical professionals and the hospital’s ability to perform highly complex procedures that meet international standards.
