Summary
- KNH has announced 480 unclaimed bodies at its mortuary.
- Families have seven days to identify and collect them.
- Failure to act will lead to court-approved disposal.
NAIROBI, Kenya- Kenyatta National Hospital has issued a public notice urging families to collect 480 unclaimed bodies currently held at its Farewell Home.
The hospital warned that the remains will be disposed of within seven days if not identified and claimed.
Hospital gives families urgent deadline to act
In the notice dated March 24, KNH said the unclaimed bodies include 102 adults and 378 children.
Management called on relatives and guardians to come forward immediately to identify and collect the remains.
“Interested members of the public are therefore requested to identify and collect the bodies within seven days,” the hospital said.
Failure to do so will see the facility seek court approval for disposal.
Law allows disposal after public notice and court approval
KNH cited the Public Health Act Cap 242 and the Public Health (Public Mortuaries) Rules of 1991, which guide the handling of unclaimed bodies.
Under the law, hospitals can dispose of bodies that remain unclaimed after a set period, typically between 21 days and three months, once a public notice is issued and a court order obtained.
In some cases, unclaimed bodies may also be used for medical training under the Anatomy Act Cap 249, subject to strict approval from the Ministry of Health.
Overcrowding crisis in public mortuaries worsens
The situation highlights ongoing congestion in public mortuaries across Kenya, where unclaimed bodies continue to strain space and resources.
Officials say some families fail to collect bodies due to financial constraints, lack of information, or social challenges.
In extreme cases, hospitals are forced to conduct mass burials to free up space and maintain sanitary conditions.
Authorities warn that prolonged storage of bodies poses logistical and public health risks, especially in overwhelmed facilities.
KNH has urged families to act swiftly, stressing the importance of giving loved ones a dignified send-off.
