The Nairobi City County Health, Wellness, and Nutrition sector has issued a public appeal, urging individuals who have lost contact with loved ones or are unsure of their whereabouts to visit the Nairobi Funeral Home (formerly City Mortuary) to check if their relatives are among the unclaimed bodies.
This call comes as the facility faces a severe capacity crisis, with over 600 bodies currently being stored—far exceeding its intended capacity of 184.
"The funeral home is operating beyond its capacity, making it essential for the public to identify their deceased relatives and help create space," the statement said. The county is also seeking court approval to dispose of the unclaimed bodies.
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Attempts to obtain legal clearance for this process have been delayed. According to the Public Health Act Cap 242, bodies must be stored for at least three months before a court can authorize their disposal. Additionally, a 14-day public notice is required before any action can be taken.
The county has already informed the Attorney General's office, and the case is scheduled to be heard at the Milimani Court on October 15, 2024. During the hearing, the county will request a court order to proceed with the disposal of the unclaimed bodies.
