Nyanchwa Hospital in Kisii was the scene of jubilation on Monday morning after Vane Nyanchoka Ontweka safely delivered quadruplets a rare and heartwarming event that has captured nationwide attention.
The babies, delivered via caesarean section, include three boys and one girl, all named in honor of Kenya’s late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga and his wife, Ida Odinga. The boys were named Raila, Amolo, and Odinga, while the girl was named Ida. Hospital staff celebrated the successful delivery, describing it as a moment of hope and new life.
“We were delighted to deliver the babies,” said Dr. Maria Lyther, the hospital’s chief medical officer. “The mother faced some challenges due to the combined weight of the four newborns, but both she and the babies are now stable.”
For Nyanchoka, the birth was both surprising and miraculous.
“I didn’t expect them to be four,” she laughed. “The ultrasound showed only three. Walking and breathing were difficult toward the end, but I thank God for this blessing.”
The decision to name the quadruplets after the Odingas came during a moment of shared emotion among hospital staff.
“When complications arose, it coincided with the announcement of Raila’s passing,” explained Everline Mong’are, one of the attending nurses. “We said, ‘Raila has come back in a big way.’ So we named them Raila, Amolo, Odinga, and Ida.”
Nyanchoka, who already has twins, expressed overwhelming gratitude for her growing family.
“It’s truly amazing. First twins, now quadruplets only God can do that,” she said.
Hospital officials have appealed to the community for support as the mother adjusts to caring for her four newborns.
“Raising four babies at once is no easy task,” said Dancun Mosioma, a senior administrator at Nyanchwa Hospital. “We are calling on well-wishers to lend a helping hand as the family embarks on this extraordinary journey.”
