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KTN Journalist Opens up About his Near-Death Experience

On June 14th, 2021, the life of KTN News journalist Hamza Yussuf took an unexpected turn.

He was diagnosed with acute appendicitis and had to be rushed to a hospital in Garissa for immediate treatment.

Unfortunately, the situation worsened when doctors discovered that his appendix had ruptured, requiring emergency surgery.

What followed was a harrowing six-hour operation and a desperate fight for his life, and Hamza found himself in a male ward afterwards, beginning what would be a long recovery process.

KTN News journalist Hamza Yussuf in the theatre.
KTN News journalist Hamza Yussuf in the theatre. PHOTO/Hamza Yussuf

Also Read: Ex-KTN Journalist Frank Otieno Lands Govt Job [EXCLUSIVE]


What Happened to Hamza Yussuf After Surgery

After spending 11 days in the hospital, Hamza was hopeful for a quick recovery, but things got worse a month later.

He started experiencing complications and, after consulting his family doctor, he was informed that the surgeon had failed to use a necessary mesh during the procedure.

Consequently, he has developed an incisional hernia. This condition left one side of his stomach swollen, while the other side was empty, a painful and disheartening experience for Hamza, who had hoped to return to work as soon as possible.

The doctor recommended another surgery to correct the issue, but the road to recovery was not immediate. Hamza would have to wait for three long years to heal fully before the corrective procedure could take place.

“Those years were the hardest of my life. I had to limit my work and travel, putting everything on hold for the sake of my health.


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“Some colleagues misunderstood my situation, assuming I had become redundant. But I was fortunate to have a few editors and friends who stood by me, offering their unwavering support and understanding,” he said.


Also Read: DCI Caught on Video Harassing Citizen TV Journalist


Second Surgery and Life After

While some of his loved ones encouraged him to take legal action against the hospital for the error, Hamza chose a path of forgiveness.

Guided by his faith, he opted to trust in God’s plan, focusing on prayer, patience, and charity, embodying the values of patience and forgiveness, which are central to his Islamic faith.

Finally, on December 6th, 2024, Hamza underwent the long-awaited corrective surgery.

The surgery was successful, and the KTN journalist is now in recovery.

“Words cannot express the gratitude I feel, to God, for giving me another chance; to my family and friends, for their constant prayers and encouragement; and to the Standard Media Group (KTN News editors), who supported me during my lowest moments.”

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KTN News journalist Hamza Yussuf.
KTN News journalist Hamza Yussuf. PHOTO/KTN

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Joy Kwama

Mercy Joy Kwama is a News Reporter at The Kenya Times who is dedicated to the art of storytelling and truth-telling and changing narratives. She has covered diverse topics including politics, social justice, environmental issues, climate change, and entertainment. Mercy is particularly driven to amplify the voices of African communities and challenge the prevailing status quo. She is a graduate of Riara University with a degree in Communications and Multimedia Journalism and is well-equipped to navigate the complex landscape of news reporting. In her spare time, Mercy likes to pick up new skills including crocheting, gardening, dance, reading, and music. She can be reached at joy.kwama@thekenyatimes.com

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