The medical community in Kenya is in mourning following the tragic death of Dr. Desree Moraa, a promising young intern at Gatundu County Referral Hospital.
Reported as a suicide, her passing has sparked outcry over the financial and emotional challenges faced by medical interns in public health facilities.
According to Dr. Muinde Nthusi, Chairman of the Internship Liaison Committee, Dr. Moraa’s struggles included the inability to meet basic needs such as rent and utilities while enduring relentless pressure from supervisors.
He emphasized that her heartbreaking experience is indicative of a broader systemic failure, calling for immediate attention from the Ministry of Health to address the treatment of medical interns.
The situation has drawn attention to the arduous conditions interns face, including 36-hour shifts and inadequate rest, often coupled with “inhumane” treatment from superiors.
To honor Dr. Moraa and raise awareness about these critical issues, medical interns nationwide will observe a 36-hour period of mourning, withdrawing services as a symbolic act of remembrance.
They hope this observance will advocate for necessary reforms to improve the working environment for healthcare professionals in Kenya.
