25/10/2025
Tears of relief and joy filled Kenyatta National Hospital as 8 year old Ian Baraka underwent a delicate 6 hour facial reconstruction surgery that gave him a new face and a second chance at life.
It was a moment of hope after months of fear and pain for his family.
In December 2023, Ian was shot by bandits at his home in Meru County. The bullet tore through his face leaving him with devastating injuries that doctors described as the worst they had ever seen in a child.
His mother watched helplessly as her cheerful little boy struggled to survive.
He was first treated in a local hospital before being transferred to Kenyatta National Hospital where doctors vowed to do everything possible to save his face and his future. Because of his young age, they could not use tissue from other parts of his body, forcing them to look for advanced solutions.
After months of preparation, a team of specialists performed the groundbreaking surgery on September 25. Soft gospel music played in the operating room as the doctors worked carefully, using custom made medical implants shipped from Belgium.
The procedure was a first of its kind in Kenya, a sign of both courage and innovation in local medicine.
The surgery and recovery cost about 1.7 million shillings, including the special materials used to rebuild his face. The doctors, however, charged nothing for their work. They gave their time, skill and heart to restore the boy’s dignity.
For Ian’s mother, Bessy Kirya, the journey has been filled with tears and faith. After the attack, her husband left, leaving her to raise their son alone.
When she saw Ian’s new face after the surgery, she called it a miracle, saying God had given her child back.
Today, Ian can eat, talk and walk again. His mother says she is grateful to everyone who stood with them during their darkest days.
Soon, Ian will return to school and continue chasing his dreams.🤍🙌
