Frustrated Medical Intern Commits Suicide In Gatundu

Dr Desree Moraa Obwogi was found dead on the balcony of her bedroom apartment on Sunday night, police and her colleagues said.

Police who visited the scene said they found her body dangling near a balcony with a rope tied around her neck.

Dr Moraa, 27, stayed alone at the time of the death, officials said.

She stayed on the fourth floor of the apartment where the body was found.

The motive of the incident is yet to be revealed.

She had left a suicide note to suggest the motive, police and the family said.

She had said she was stressed and overworked, officials said.

Her family said they were heartbroken by the incident.

Her friends attributed the death to immense work pressure and personal struggles.

They argued that this included round-the-clock 12-hour shifts that sometimes stretched into 36 hours.

Police said they were Sunday evening called and informed of the death and for now they are investigating suicide.

The body was moved to the mortuary pending autopsy. Her colleagues mourned her as a dedicated medical doctor.

Other medical interns said they were heartbroken and deeply saddened by the tragic loss of their colleague.

“Her untimely death, reportedly by suicide, highlights a dire situation that has persisted within our ranks-one marked by overwhelming financial constraints and a toxic work environment,” the Interns said in a statement.

They argued Dr. Moraa’s struggles to meet basic needs, such as rent and utility bills, compounded by relentless demands from supervisors and consultants, reflect a systemic failure that has left many of us feeling isolated and unsupported.

“This heartbreaking incident is not an isolated case; it underscores the urgent need for the Ministry of Health to address the negligence and inconsiderate treatment of medical interns, who represent a significant portion of the healthcare workforce in public facilities,” the group said.

They argued as medical interns, they contribute approximately 30 per cent of the labour in public health facilities, often enduring extended shifts exceeding 36 hours without adequate rest or meals.

“The mental health implications of such conditions cannot be overstated, we have witnessed too many lives lost to suicide over the years without any meaningful action from the relevant authorities,” the interns said.

“Also, the inhumane treatment some of us face from senior doctors and consultants is unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest terms.”

To honour her and to raise awareness about these critical issues, the group said they will observe 36 hours of mourning starting Tuesday, September 24, at noon.

During this period all medical interns (medical officers, dentists and pharmacists) will withdraw their services.

“We urge all medical superintendents, chief executive officers of major referral hospitals, county executive committee members of health, and all medical interns to join us in this solemn remembrance,” the interns said.

The interns said the facilities management should anticipate and plan accordingly to ensure health and medical services are not interrupted.