An 80-year-old widow, Hellena Kigetu Ntwomo, from Miruriine village in Meru county, Kenya, is urging Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral, and Research Hospital (KUTRRH) to release her son's body for burial. Her son, Benjamin Ntombura, 52, died on August 9, 2026, while receiving treatment at the hospital's ICU Unit. The body has been at the hospital's mortuary for over a month, and the family is struggling to pay approximately Sh500,000 in medical and morgue bills.
According to Ntombura's elder brother, James Gikundi, the deceased had been ill for about three years and had received treatment at various hospitals, including Kiirua Mission Hospital-Meru, The Nairobi West Hospital-Nairobi, and Nkubu Consolata Mission Hospitals. The family was eventually referred to KUTTR for specialized medication. Gikundi stated that the family's financial situation has been drained due to the prolonged medical treatment.
Gikundi revealed that the family has tried to convince the KUTRRH's management to release the body for burial, but they have been told to clear 75 percent of the required money and deposit a title deed as collateral. The family and well-wishers have raised about Sh100,000 towards the cause, but they are struggling to raise the remaining balance. Gikundi appealed to the hospital's management to waive the remaining balance on humanitarian grounds.
The prolonged wait for the body's release has taken a toll on the family, particularly the ailing widow. Gikundi reported that his mother's health has deteriorated due to prolonged mourning, and she is now struggling with sleep, appetite, and emotional distress. The family is appealing for assistance from well-wishers, including political leaders, to help raise the required bill.
The medical bill is increasing by Sh1000 daily, adding to the family's financial burden. Gikundi provided an Mpesa number, O710739564, for any contributions that may be made towards the cause. The family is urging the hospital's management to consider their plea and release the body for burial.
The KUTRRH's management has not commented on the matter, but the family remains hopeful that they will consider their situation. The widow's appeal has garnered sympathy from various quarters, with many calling for the hospital to show compassion and understanding in this difficult time.
The situation highlights the challenges many families face in accessing healthcare services in Kenya, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. The case has sparked a renewed debate on the need for affordable healthcare services and the importance of compassion in the healthcare sector.
Key points
- The family of Benjamin Ntombura has raised about Sh100,000 towards the medical bill but still needs to clear a balance of approximately Sh400,000.
- The ailing widow's health has deteriorated due to prolonged mourning, and the family is appealing for assistance to help raise the required bill.
- The medical bill is increasing by Sh1000 daily, adding to the family's financial burden.
