A painful story of survival has emerged from Eldoret, where 23-year-old Amon Kipruto revealed that he sold one of his kidneys in a desperate attempt to escape financial hardship. Initially, he had refused an offer from a group promising financial support, but worsening economic difficulties forced him to reconsider.
Under mounting pressure, Kipruto agreed to the procedure, which was arranged at a local hospital. In exchange for his kidney, he received KSh 600,000.
“I agreed to have my kidney removed. They paid me KSh 600,000 as promised,” Kipruto reflected, acknowledging the regret and health consequences that followed.
Almost immediately after the surgery, complications arose, requiring continuous medical attention. The ordeal has also taken a significant emotional toll on his family. His mother, Leah Meto, described the shock and heartbreak she experienced upon learning of her son’s condition.
“They told me my son had lost a kidney. I came back immediately and found him unwell,” she said, recounting how she was informed while visiting her own mother.
Since the surgery, Kipruto and his mother have made regular hospital visits to monitor the aftereffects of the operation. The situation has been emotionally taxing, with Kipruto admitting that his decision has caused distress and embarrassment to his family, particularly to his mother.
Kipruto’s story highlights the harsh realities of poverty in Kenya and raises urgent questions about the exploitation of vulnerable individuals in illegal organ trade, as well as the need for increased awareness and social support for struggling families.
