Kenya has achieved a major breakthrough in specialized healthcare after Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) successfully performed the country’s first-ever Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy (MIE), a complex surgical procedure used to treat cancer of the esophagus.
The landmark operation, conducted on June 30, 2026, was performed on a 43-year-old patient diagnosed with esophageal cancer and is being hailed as a significant advancement in Kenya’s capacity to provide world-class cancer treatment locally.
The achievement has drawn praise from the Ministry of Health, which congratulated the multidisciplinary team behind the procedure.
“Congratulations to the KNH multidisciplinary team on successfully performing Kenya’s first Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy. This is a remarkable milestone showcasing innovation, expertise and commitment to advancing patient care. We wish the team continued success as they set new standards in surgical excellence,” the Ministry said in a statement.
According to KNH, the patient underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy before surgery to shrink the tumor and improve the chances of successful treatment. Following a detailed clinical evaluation, doctors determined that the patient was suitable for curative surgery using the minimally invasive technique.
Unlike traditional open surgery, which requires large incisions in the chest and abdomen, the minimally invasive procedure is performed through several small incisions using advanced laparoscopic instruments and high-definition imaging technology.
During the seven-hour operation, surgeons removed the diseased esophagus and reconstructed the digestive tract by reshaping the patient’s stomach into a tube and connecting it to the throat to create a new food passage.
The pioneering surgery was led by Dr. Joseph Mutie and Dr. Obed Makori, Consultant Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeons, assisted by Dr. Praxidice, Dr. Muthoni, and Dr. Yakub.
The anesthesia team was headed by Dr. Billow and Dr. P. Chelagat, while the nursing team was led by Mr. Kitems, assisted by Mr. Onyari and Mr. Collins. Post-operative care is being overseen by Dr. L. Ooko alongside a dedicated nursing team.
Speaking after the successful procedure, lead surgeon Dr. Joseph Mutie described the operation as a game-changer for cancer treatment in Kenya.
“This is the first Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy performed in Kenya. It represents the global standard of care and demonstrates that Kenyan patients can now access world-class esophageal cancer surgery within our country,” said Dr. Mutie.
Medical experts say the minimally invasive approach offers several advantages over conventional surgery, including reduced blood loss, less pain, smaller scars, fewer respiratory complications and faster recovery times.
In this case, doctors reported minimal blood loss during surgery and no need for a blood transfusion.
The patient spent six days in the Critical Care Unit (CCU) before being transferred to the general ward, where recovery has continued smoothly.
A chest X-ray conducted on the third day after surgery showed no signs of infection or other chest complications. Doctors also confirmed that the patient is now able to consume small amounts of soft food orally, indicating successful reconstruction of the digestive system and steady recovery.
Senior Director of Clinical Services Dr. Joel Lessan said the success of the operation demonstrates the importance of teamwork across multiple medical specialties.
“This milestone reflects the seamless coordination of surgeons, oncologists, anesthesiologists, nurses and critical care teams working together to deliver the highest standard of patient care,” he said.
Meanwhile, KNH Chief Executive Officer Dr. Richard Lesiyampe described the achievement as a defining moment for both the hospital and Kenya’s healthcare sector.
“KNH has demonstrated what is possible when clinical excellence, innovation and teamwork come together. This historic first is not only a victory for KNH but for Kenya’s healthcare system. It reaffirms our commitment to providing world-class, patient-centred care, investing in cutting-edge technology and strengthening specialist training,” said Dr. Lesiyampe.
Healthcare experts say the successful procedure places Kenya among a growing number of countries capable of performing highly specialized minimally invasive cancer surgeries, reducing the need for patients to seek treatment abroad.
The milestone further cements KNH’s position as Kenya’s premier national referral and teaching hospital while highlighting the country’s growing capacity to deliver advanced medical care that meets international standards.
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