A trader who sustained a gunshot wound to the head during Tuesday’s anti-government protests in Nairobi’s Central Business District is fighting for his life at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), where he remains in critical condition under intensive care.
In an official update issued Wednesday, KNH confirmed the man was referred to the facility at 3:16 p.m. on June 17, 2025, following the violent clashes that broke out between protesters and police.
The trader, who was operating within the CBD, arrived at the hospital critically ill with a severe brain injury and excessive bleeding caused by a bullet that struck the left side of his head.The emergency medical team, led by Dr. Janet Sugut, immediately stabilized him and placed him on life support.
A CT scan confirmed the extent of the injury, prompting an emergency surgery performed by a multidisciplinary team led by Consultant Neurosurgeon Dr. Sam Njiru.The two-hour operation, which began around 8:50 p.m., successfully removed the bullet.
The patient was later moved to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where he remains on mechanical ventilation under close monitoring.
KNH CEO and medical teams have commended the swift actions of first responders and members of the public who helped get victims to the hospital promptly. “While his condition remains critical, the patient is alive and receiving round-the-clock care,” read the statement from the hospital.
In total, 16 people injured during the protests were treated at KNH. Seven were admitted for further management, nine were treated and discharged, two underwent surgery, and four others are scheduled for surgical procedures today.
Among the victims is one unidentified patient who sustained a skull fracture from an alleged assault and remains under observation.
Kenyatta National Hospital has praised its emergency response teams for their professionalism and resilience in managing the crisis. “KNH remains committed to providing the highest standard of emergency and trauma care,” the statement read
Further updates on the injured patients will be issued with due respect to their privacy and dignity.
