KUTRRH launches free Tumaini Clinic for sexual violence survivors

By Lawrence Ongaro

The Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH) on Friday, March 6, launched Tumaini Clinic, a facility that will offer free treatment and support to women and children who have experienced rape and other forms of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).

The launch was made possible through collaboration between Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) and the international medical humanitarian organisation Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF).

In a speech delivered on her behalf by Dr Caroline Ngugi, the Director of Training and Research, KUTRRH Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr Zeinab Gura, said survivors of SGBV need to access medical care within 72 hours so they can receive urgent treatment. She emphasized that psychological evaluation and support are also essential.

Dr Gura noted that Tumaini Clinic has skilled nurses who are professionally trained to provide high-quality care to survivors.

Comprehensive medical and psychological care

According to Dr Gura, the clinic is important because it offers hope to victims who often arrive at the hospital in distress.

She added that for the past 18 years, MSF has been at the forefront in Nairobi in providing care and support to survivors of rape.

Dr Caroline Ngugi, who oversees Training and Research at KUTRRH, representing the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr Zeinab Gura. Photo/Lawrence Ongaro

Tumaini Clinic treats survivors of sexual assault and provides treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including preventive medication to reduce the risk of HIV infection. The clinic also offers emergency contraceptive pills to prevent unwanted pregnancies, vaccinations, and psychological counselling.

Call for community cooperation

Dr Irene Mutua, the SGBV coordinator at KUTRRH, said the programme has been implemented with great dedication. She revealed that the first survivor was treated at Tumaini Clinic on March 2, 2026.

She noted that one in every three people is affected by sexual violence and stressed that addressing the issue requires the cooperation of the entire community.

Dr Caroline Ngugi with other nurses during the launch of the Tumaini Clinic. Photo/Lawrence Ongaro

Speaking on behalf of the Director of Services at Tumaini Clinic, Dr Janet Muia highlighted the clinic’s commitment to maintaining the confidentiality of every survivor while providing urgent care, counselling and compassionate support.

Representing the nurses, Ms Purity Kibathi described Tumaini Clinic as a source of hope for the community. She praised the clinic for offering prompt medical treatment, psychological counselling and collaboration with legal professionals, all free of charge.

MSF representative Rebecca Ndung’u commended KUTRRH for its commitment to supporting survivors and the dedication of its staff.

Meanwhile, Ms Salome Ndolo, from the mental health department at KNH, speaking on behalf of Dr Ian Kanyanya, said the partnership between KNH and KUTRRH made the programme possible.

The Officer Commanding Station (OCS) for Kahawa West Police Station, Inspector Yusuf Yahya, urged members of the public to report cases of rape and SGBV occurring in their communities. He said cooperation between the public and the police would help address the problem.

Kahawa West Chief John Karanja said residents have welcomed the launch of Tumaini Clinic and pledged continued cooperation with KUTRRH, KNH, and MSF.