A terrifying incident unfolded at Kitengela Hospital on the evening of Monday, July 7, 2025, when armed goons stormed the facility, disrupting an ongoing caesarean section procedure and endangering the lives of a mother and her newborn.
The attackers vandalised the hospital’s operating theatre and set fire to the hospital’s main gate, sending patients, medical staff, and bystanders into a state of panic and confusion. Medical personnel were forced to flee mid-surgery, temporarily abandoning the mother and baby on the operating table.
Condemnation from Medical Community
The Kenya Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society (KOGS) issued a strongly worded statement condemning the unlawful invasion of the hospital and the terrifying disruption of essential maternal care.
This action constitutes a grave breach of medical ethics, patient rights, and human decency,” said Dr. Kireki Omanwa, KOGS president.
He described the incident as inhumane and reckless, warning that such attacks not only traumatize healthcare professionals but also violate the sanctity of safe medical spaces.
Of particular concern is the terrifying disruption of the hospital’s operating theatre while a mother was undergoing a caesarean section—a moment that should be safeguarded by the highest standard of medical protection and dignity,” Dr. Omanwa stated.
Police Response Under Fire
Beyond the hospital attack, KOGS also criticised the police response to the Saba Saba protests, arguing that the deployment of roadblocks, curfews, and tear gas disproportionately affected pregnant women and sick children.
These measures have restricted movement, making it nearly impossible for many women in labor and critically ill children to access timely healthcare,” Dr. Omanwa said.
The Society cited Article 43(1)(a) of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to the highest attainable standard of health, including reproductive healthcare.
Confirmed Death and Gunshot Casualties in Kitengela
Meanwhile, tension remained high in Kitengela following reports of police shootings during protests in the area. A 21-year-old bodaboda rider, was confirmed dead after being shot during the chaos.
According to a senior nurse at Kitengela Level 4 Hospital, the rider was rushed to the facility with fatal injuries. The hospital also confirmed receiving four other individuals with gunshot wounds, alongside injured police officers who were being treated for various injuries sustained during the protests.
Growing Calls for Accountability
The attack on Kitengela Hospital has intensified calls for accountability from both government and law enforcement. Civil society organizations and health workers have urged the state to:
- Investigate the hospital invasion and prosecute the perpetrators.
- Ensure safety of hospitals and health workers during protests and unrest.
- Respect constitutional guarantees for healthcare and human dignity.
As Kenya reels from the aftermath of the Saba Saba protests, this latest incident serves as a chilling reminder of the cost of chaos when lawlessness and state violence intersect, even in places meant for healing.
