MTRH Gives 16 Children a Fresh Start After Successful Life-Changing Surgeries at Shoe4Africa Children’s Hospital

 

By Staff Reporter

Sixteen children living with Hirschsprung’s disease have been given a new lease of life after specialists at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) successfully performed Duhamel pull-through surgeries during a week-long medical mission at the Shoe4Africa Children’s Hospital.

The procedures—conducted between November 3rd and 7th, 2025—were part of the Pediatric Pull-Through Surgery Project, an initiative aimed at expanding access to advanced surgical care for children born with the rare and debilitating intestinal condition. Hirschsprung’s disease, a congenital defect affecting the large intestine, can make passing stool extremely difficult and often causes severe discomfort, repeated hospital visits, and emotional distress for both children and their families.

For many of the young patients, the surgeries marked the end of years of pain and uncertainty.

Leading the mission, Consultant Pediatric Surgeon Dr. Peter Saula described the project as a transformative moment for the affected families. He emphasized that beyond the medical milestone, the initiative restored dignity, comfort, and hope.

“This program has given sixteen children a chance at healthier, pain-free lives. The success of these surgeries reflects the strength of our team and the commitment of MTRH to improving specialized child health services,” Dr. Saula said shortly after the final procedure.

Behind the scenes, a dedicated multidisciplinary team—anaesthetists, theatre nurses, pediatric specialists, and post-operative care staff—worked long days to ensure each child received safe and compassionate care. For many staff members, the week was emotionally moving as they witnessed children who had struggled for years begin their recovery journeys.

MTRH Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Philip Kirwa, hailed the initiative as a key step toward strengthening Kenya’s capacity to handle complex pediatric surgeries locally, reducing the emotional and financial strain on families who would otherwise require referrals outside the region.

“All 16 children have been discharged and are recovering well at home,” Dr. Kirwa confirmed, noting that the success of the mission has energized the hospital’s broader strategy to expand pediatric surgical services.

MTRH is continuing to invest in training, modern equipment, and partnerships with both local and international health experts to ensure more children with specialized needs can access timely and high-quality care.

For the families touched by the project, the week brought not just healing—but renewed hope for a brighter, healthier future.