The Kenya Prisons Service is celebrating Senior Sergeant (S/SGT) Isaac Maina Nduta, a Registered Clinical Officer at the Prisons Staff Training College, for his pivotal role in Kenya’s first successful Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS)-guided bronchoscopy.
In a statement on September 20, the Kenya Prisons Service highlighted that Maina Nduta, working with a specialized team at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), performed the procedure on a 55-year-old patient.
The minimally invasive procedure helps doctors better diagnose and treat lung and chest-related diseases.
“We celebrate S/SGT Maina Nduta, a Registered Clinical Officer at the Prisons Staff Training College, for her key role in Kenya’s first successful Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS) guided bronchoscopy,” the statement read.
However, Nduta is no ordinary clinician. His journey into the disciplined forces was inspired by his mother, a great admirer of men and women in uniform.
She often spoke of his grandfather, a police officer whose service filled the family with pride.
Encouraged by her words, Maina decided to join the Kenya Prisons Service just as the department was recruiting new officers.
He attended the recruitment camp and was recommended for training. For nine months, he underwent the rigorous paramilitary instruction required to become a prison officer—an intensive program that included combat skills, prisoner rehabilitation, and security management.
Determined to go further, he extended his training by an additional three months, eventually earning the rank of sergeant.
Currently training as an Anesthetist, Maina showcases the vital impact of Kenya Prisons Service health professionals on national healthcare excellence.
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Maina Nduta Journey
Maina’s journey to this point began in Gatundu, where he spent his school holidays at a nearby health center.
Fascinated by the simple but vital task of sterilizing syringes, he was inspired by Mrs. Karanja, a family friend and nurse who became both mentor and guardian. Her influence cemented his desire to join the medical profession.
After excelling in his KCSE exams in 2005 with an A-, Maina narrowly missed the cut-off for a medical degree.
On Mrs. Karanja’s advice, he enrolled at Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC), Thika campus, for a diploma in Clinical Medicine and Surgery.
He later advanced his studies at Mount Kenya University, graduating in 2015 with a BSc in Clinical Medicine, Surgery and Community Health while balancing school with work at the Centre for Health Solutions in Makuyu Health Centre.
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Joining the Kenya Prisons Service
Frustrated by limited opportunities to make change in civilian health facilities, Maina turned to the disciplined forces at his mother’s urging.
In 2016, he was recruited into the Kenya Prisons Service and later posted to the Prison Staff Training College Health Centre in Ruiru, where he continues to serve inmates, prison staff, and the surrounding community.
Beyond the clinic, Maina supports prison sports teams, acting as a team doctor for football and volleyball matches, and was honoured on January 1, 2020, with a Kenya Prisons Service award for outstanding performance, discipline, and commitment to duty.
From a village boy inspired in a small health centre to a paramilitary-trained clinician now contributing to cutting-edge procedures, S/SGT Isaac Maina Nduta’s story is one of resilience, service, and national impact.
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