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MEDICAL INTERNSHIPS — kenya

A Rich History with Contemporary Challenges

Kenya Medical Internships
A group of people dressed in traditional attire, standing outdoors with a scenic background of trees and hills.

A Land of Resilience
and Opportunity

Kenya is a land of striking contrasts, where the turquoise waves of the Indian Ocean meet the sweeping plains of the Serengeti and Nairobi’s skyscrapers rise beside rural villages. This nation is moving forward, powered by a growing middle class and a spirit of innovation. However, many challenges remain. More than half the population lives below the poverty line, and the healthcare system is stretched thin as it confronts HIV, malaria, and maternal health concerns.

In rural settlements and arid northern regions, women and children are especially vulnerable, often lacking reliable access to clinics, clean water, or proper sanitation. Ongoing regional tensions, including instability spilling over from neighboring Somalia, make these disparities even more pronounced.

Since 2013, International Medical Aid has been a beacon of hope in Kenya. Our mobile clinics deliver care to the farthest reaches, our hygiene programs empower communities, and our mental health initiatives foster healing. Rooted in the academic excellence of Johns Hopkins University, we partner with Kenyan physicians, tribal leaders, and families to build sustainable solutions. As an IMA intern, you’ll join this mission, gaining hands-on clinical experience while leaving a lasting impact on Kenya’s future.

A person in blue scrubs is practicing surgical skills with instruments.

Why Kenya
with IMA?

Picture yourself assisting in a Kenyan hospital, stethoscope in hand, as a local physician mentors you through a complex diagnosis. Visualize the impact of teaching handwashing techniques in a rural school, with children’s laughter filling the classroom. IMA’s Kenya internships deliver immersive clinical training and cultural engagement, offering hands-on experiences that strengthen your medical or graduate school application. Established at Johns Hopkins, our programs provide the preparation and unique perspective valued by top admissions committees.

Unlike passive shadowing experiences, IMA places you at the forefront of care delivery, working in resource-limited settings to hone skills that resonate globally. Our in-country Medical Director and Patient Coordinators provide unwavering support, ensuring you thrive both professionally and personally.

You’ll live in secure, gated residences with Wi-Fi, savor meals crafted by an in-house chef, and explore Kenya’s soul through market tours, medical-based Swahili language lessons, and visits with tribal leaders. With flexible 2- to 12-week programs starting every Saturday, IMA tailors your internship to your dreams, offering academic credit, a certificate of completion, and letters of recommendation to propel your career.

Key Statistics

Country/Region kenya
Population 56,012,486 (2024)
Life Expectancy 67.5 years (2023)
Maternal Mortality Ratio 530 per 100,000 live births (2020)
Under-5 Mortality Rate 38.2 per 1,000 live births (2023)
Healthcare Expenditure (% of GDP) 4.8% (2022)
Literacy Rate 82.9% (2022)
Access to Improved Water 82.9% (2022)
Access to Improved Sanitation 33.1% (2023)
Human Development Index Rank 146 of 191 (2022)
Additional Insights

HIV Prevalence: 3.5% (ages 15–49, 2023, UNAIDS)
Malaria Incidence: 260 cases per 1,000 population at risk (2023, WHO)

Sources:

World Bank, WHO, UNESCO, UNICEF, UNDP, washdata.org

OPEN OPPORTUNITIES

International Medical Aid Specialties and Internship Opportunities

Our internship programs offer an extensive array of specialized healthcare and allied health placements. Each program is carefully designed to provide meaningful, hands-on experiences for interns. The detailed information for each specialty—including program dates, fees, safety and security measures, and residential accommodations—can be accessed through the provided links:

Clinical specialties range from Medicine and Dentistry to Mental Health and Occupational Therapy, ensuring diverse opportunities for professional growth. Interns can select the program that best aligns with their career aspirations and academic backgrounds.

Healthcare and Pre-Med Internships

Abroad
9.96/10
400+ reviews
Group of healthcare and pre-med interns in blue scrubs smiling outdoors, holding an International Medical Aid banner in front of palm trees.

International Medical Aid has opportunities for doctors, medical residents, medical students, pre-med undergraduates, and gap medics to work in busy international hospitals, mentored by our outstanding staff of dedicated physicians and other healthcare professionals. We collaborate with an extensive network of public and private hospitals to provide rewarding hands-on programs…

Physician Assistant and Pre-PA Internships

Abroad
9.96/10
400+ reviews
Group of physician assistant and pre-PA interns in matching blue scrubs smiling outside a clinical training facility.

International Medical Aid has internship opportunities for pre-physician assistant students, students in graduate physician assistants programs, and licensed physician assistants to work in busy international hospitals, mentored by our outstanding staff of dedicated healthcare professionals. We collaborate with an extensive network of public and private hospitals to provide rewarding hands-on…

Dental/Pre-Dentistry Internships

Abroad
9.96/10
400+ reviews
Two medical professionals are performing a dental procedure on a patient.

International Medical Aid’s Dental Internships connect aspiring dental professionals with opportunities to gain clinical and community-based experience abroad. Interns work with dentists and public health educators to promote oral hygiene, assist in preventive and restorative care, and participate in local outreach initiatives. Our internships provide essential exposure to global oral…

Nursing/Pre-Nursing Internships

Abroad
9.96/10
400+ reviews
A group of people wearing blue scrubs poses for a photo indoors, possibly related to a medical internship.

Nursing Internship opportunities abroad are offered for undergraduate and graduate students in addition to registered nurses and nurse practitioners. Utilizing IMA’s strong network of healthcare facilities, nursing electives are designed around each intern's specific goals and interests. In many developing countries, hospitals are not adequately staffed with nurses; consequently, our…

Mental Health Internships

Abroad
9.96/10
400+ reviews
A person in scrubs with a badge interacts with a group of students in uniforms. Keywords: medical internship Kenya.

International Medical Aid offers unparalleled Mental Health Internships for psychologists, psychotherapists, social workers, and college students. Interns work in dynamic international mental healthcare environments under the guidance of experienced counselors, psychiatrists, and healthcare professionals. Partnering with public and private institutions, IMA empowers interns to enhance community health while gaining practical…

Nutrition Placement/Dietetic Internships

Abroad
9.96/10
400+ reviews
A group of medical professionals wearing masks is interacting with a child in a classroom setting.

Recognizing the importance of accessible nutrition counseling in the developing world, IMA has begun offering nutrition placements abroad and Nutrition Internships. Our programs are tailored to undergraduate and graduate students studying dietetics in addition to registered nutritionists. Volunteers work alongside local clinical nutritionists based in large, teaching hospitals. Volunteers are…

Physical Therapy/Pre-PT Internships

Abroad
9.96/10
400+ reviews
Group of six smiling healthcare interns in blue scrubs standing together in a classroom setting with medical supplies on the table in front of them.

Physiotherapy plays a vital role in patient rehabilitation and quality of life. International Medical Aid offers Physiotherapy Internship placements abroad for undergraduate and graduate students studying physiotherapy and licensed physiotherapists seeking global experience. Interns collaborate with seasoned professionals in teaching hospitals and rehabilitation centers, engaging in patient assessments, developing treatment…

Midwifery Internships

Abroad
9.96/10
400+ reviews
A group of people in blue medical scrubs stand at the front of a classroom, engaging with students, possibly during a medical internship in Kenya.

Committed to improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes, International Medical Aid provides Midwifery Internships designed for midwifery students and practicing midwives. In many developing countries, there’s a critical need for skilled midwifery care to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates. Interns work alongside local midwives in busy maternity wards and…

CRNA/Pre-Anesthesiologist Assistant Internships

Abroad
9.96/10
400+ reviews
A group of people wearing blue scrubs are holding certificates, possibly related to medical internship achievements.

International Medical Aid offers once-in-a-lifetime CRNA internships for pre-CRNA students, graduate nurse anesthesia program students, and licensed CRNAs. Work in busy international healthcare settings under the mentorship of dedicated CRNAs and other healthcare professionals. Our program focuses on enhancing the health of underserved populations through medical clinics, public health education,…

Pre-Optometry/Optometry Internships

Abroad
9.96/10
400+ reviews
Two people in blue scrubs assist a seated person in a classroom setting, with educational posters on the wall.

Through International Medical Aid’s Optometry Internships abroad, students explore the field of vision care under the guidance of licensed optometrists and ophthalmic professionals. Interns participate in vision screenings, community outreach, and clinical observation while learning how eye health intersects with broader global health challenges. The program enhances clinical readiness and…

Pre-Radiologic Technology Internships

Abroad
9.96/10
400+ reviews
A group of people in blue scrubs posing in front of an intensive care unit sign

International Medical Aid’s Pre-Radiologic Technology Internships abroad provide students with early exposure to diagnostic imaging and medical technology practices. Guided by skilled technologists and radiologists, interns assist with patient positioning, image preparation, and workflow observation in modern healthcare facilities. These experiences build a strong foundation in radiologic science while fostering…

Occupational Therapy Internships

Abroad
9.96/10
400+ reviews
A group of people in blue scrubs holding certificates, possibly signifying a medical internship in Kenya.

International Medical Aid offers unique Occupational Therapy Internships for students and professionals, providing hands-on experience in dynamic international healthcare environments. Guided by dedicated occupational therapists and healthcare experts, interns will enhance their practical skills and contribute to community well-being. Our programs focus on underserved populations in East Africa, South America,…

Chiropractic Internships Abroad

Abroad
9.96/10
400+ reviews
A group of people wearing blue scrubs, possibly in a hospital setting, suggesting a medical internship Kenya.

International Medical Aid offers immersive Global Chiropractic Internships designed for students and professionals seeking hands-on experience in global healthcare settings. Working alongside experienced chiropractors and multidisciplinary teams, participants learn to assess, treat, and prevent musculoskeletal conditions while understanding diverse patient care approaches. Interns gain valuable clinical insight and contribute to…

Our Impact and
Stories of Change

Since 2013, IMA has made a lasting difference in Kenya through practical, community-based healthcare. Our mobile clinics have reached thousands, delivering essential care to address HIV (3.5% prevalence in 2023) and malaria (260 cases per 1,000 in 2023).

Hygiene education programs in schools and villages have improved daily health practices, targeting the challenge of limited sanitation access, with only 33.1% of the population covered in 2023. Mental health clinics provide support for individuals in need, and our nutrition initiatives help combat childhood malnutrition in high-risk areas. Each program is developed alongside Kenyan partners, focusing on long-term sustainability and empowering communities to drive their own health improvements.

Consider Amina, a mother in a coastal village, who found hope through IMA’s mobile clinic. Free HIV testing and education changed her life, and now she advocates for her community, breaking stigma with every conversation.

Or meet Sarah, a 2023 pre-med intern, who recalls, “Kenya reshaped my path. The clinical skills and cultural insights I gained are my foundation for medical school.” These stories are the heartbeat of IMA’s mission, and as an intern, you’ll write the next chapter.

Support
Our Mission

A Day in the Life
of an IMA Intern

Your morning begins with the scent of Kenyan coffee in your gated residence, where you share stories with fellow interns over breakfast. By 8 AM, you’re in a mobile clinic, assisting with patient screenings or teaching hygiene in a local school. Lunch brings laughter with Kenyan colleagues, savoring ugali and nyama choma. Afternoons might take you to a hospital, observing a procedure, or to a village, sharing nutrition tips with families. As dusk falls, you embark on a cultural adventure, perhaps a Mombasa market tour or a Swahili lesson under the stars. Each day is built on hands-on clinical practice, guided mentorship, measurable results in patient care, cultural connection, and profound impact, shaping you into a global health leader.

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Hear From Our Alumni

Don’t just take our word for it—listen to the experiences of our past healthcare and pre-health interns. Our alumni have pursued successful careers, using the skills and knowledge gained during their internships to make meaningful contributions to their communities.

Here are some of our alumni's success stories:

My experience with International Medical Aid in Mombasa, Kenya, was deeply meaningful and transformative. From the moment I arrived, the in-country support team made me feel grounded and safe. Margaret, my program mentor, was incredibly supportive—always checking in on my well-being and helping me process the emotional weight of clinical work. Janet was equally encouraging, […]
Tyra Dennis

Tyra Dennis

East Africa [Mombasa, Kenya]

My experience in Kenya was amazing. I loved fully embracing the culture and meeting so many new people. The people who worked at IMA and in the hospital were wonderful. From the moment Michelle picked me up from the airport, she made IMA feel like home. She was so welcoming, and we quickly became very […]
Kayla McBride

Kayla McBride

East Africa [Mombasa, Kenya]

This trip was truly life changing and inspiring, I am very thankful for all of the staff for their amazing support through the process. I loved everything, the food and culture were beyond amazing. I want to give a shout out to my bestie Janet, she accompanied me through my weekend treks. I had a […]
Grace Munoz

Grace Munoz

East Africa [Mombasa, Kenya]

My experience in Kenya with International Medical Aid was incredible. The in-country support was excellent, and I always felt safe thanks to clear guidance and protocols. Accommodations were comfortable, and the food was a wonderful introduction to Kenyan cuisine. The clinical experience was invaluable, I got to shadow PAs and physicians, learning how they provide […]
Ija Mumford

Ija Mumford

East Africa [Mombasa, Kenya]

A person measures an elderly woman’s height in a classroom setting.

Our Initiatives

IMA's work in Kenya centers on practical, community-driven healthcare solutions. Our mobile medical and hygiene clinics reach remote areas, delivering care directly to those in need. These teams address challenges such as HIV, malaria, and maternal health, responding to a maternal mortality ratio of 530 per 100,000 as of 2020. In both schools and villages, our sanitation education programs promote better health by teaching effective hygiene practices. This work is crucial in a country where only 33.1% of the population has access to adequate sanitation (2023).

Mental health clinics run by IMA provide counseling and promote open conversations, helping to reduce stigma and support those facing psychological challenges. Our nutrition and food security initiatives supply children and families with better nourishment, targeting malnutrition through local partnerships and education.

Every initiative is built in collaboration with Kenyan physicians, tribal leaders, and community advocates. By working together from the ground up, our programs reflect the unique needs of each community and achieve lasting results. As an intern, you will contribute to care delivery, health education, and outreach, becoming part of a team dedicated to improving health and opportunity throughout Kenya.

For Our Donors: Fueling a Healthier Kenya

Every contribution to IMA is a spark that ignites change. Your support funds mobile clinics that reach thousands, providing free HIV testing and malaria treatment. It equips schools with hygiene resources, empowers communities through mental health care, and ensures children grow strong with proper nutrition. Since 2013, donors like you have helped us serve countless lives, addressing Kenya's 3.5% HIV prevalence and 260 per 1,000 malaria incidence (2023).

Your tax-deductible gift—whether $50 or $5,000—creates a ripple effect, building a sustainable healthcare future. Join us in this mission and see your impact in action.

A group of people in blue uniforms are interacting with children outdoors.

Partner with IMA in Kenya

At International Medical Aid, we believe that collaboration is the key to creating lasting change in global health. Since 2013, our work in Kenya has been strengthened by partnerships with local physicians, tribal leaders, and community advocates who co-design our programs to address the nation's most pressing needs—combating HIV (3.5% prevalence, 2023), improving sanitation access (33.1%, 2023), and reducing maternal mortality (530 per 100,000 live births, 2020). Now, we're seeking partners to amplify this impact even further.

Whether you're an academic institution looking to offer your students unparalleled global health experience, a healthcare organization aiming to expand access to care, or an NGO passionate about sustainable development, partnering with IMA offers a unique opportunity to make a difference in Kenya.

Collaborate with us to develop new initiatives, provide resources for mobile clinics, or support training programs for local healthcare workers. Together, we can reach more of Kenya's 56 million people, ensuring that every community—from Nairobi to the farthest rural villages—has the tools to thrive. Let's unite in this mission to build a healthier, more equitable future for Kenya.

Contact Us to Partner

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Your Journey with IMA

Your path to Kenya begins with a simple step: applying online. Submit your form, personal statement, and documents, and if selected, join us for an interview to ensure the perfect fit. Once accepted, you'll receive a comprehensive pre-departure guide, covering vaccinations, visas, and travel insurance.

In Kenya, our team welcomes you to secure residences, where you'll settle in with Wi-Fi, chef-prepared meals, and 24/7 support. Your internship—whether 2 or 12 weeks—unfolds with clinical rotations, community outreach, and cultural adventures. After completion, you'll return with a certificate, academic credit (if applicable), and letters of recommendation, ready to conquer your next chapter. Start today and let Kenya shape your future.

Medical Internships in Kenya

IMA's Kenya internships offer 13 clinical specialties, each a canvas for your growth. Aspiring doctors can join our Medicine or Pre-Medicine internships, mastering diagnostics in real-world settings. Nurses and pre-nursing students hone patient care skills, while those in Mental Health or Nutrition lead workshops. From Midwifery to Chiropractic, every program is hands-on, guided by expert mentors, and enriched by cultural immersion.

Explore your options, from 2- to 12-week programs, and find the perfect fit:

What You'll Gain

Participating interns gain invaluable practical experience in global health, directly contributing to healthcare delivery in resource-limited settings. Interns develop critical cross-cultural communication and problem-solving skills, acquire advanced clinical, public health, and program management competencies, and gain unique insights into international healthcare systems and policies.

You'll build cultural fluency, forging connections across borders. Your resume will glow with public health experience, program management insights, and a certificate of completion, while academic credit and recommendation letters open doors to medical or graduate school. Beyond skills, you'll carry Kenya's lessons of resilience, community, and purpose into every step of your journey. The experience promotes significant personal growth through community immersion and cultural exchange activities, providing a well-rounded global health education

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Safety & Support

Your Home Away from Home

IMA prioritizes your safety and comfort. Our in-country Medical Director and Patient Coordinators offer 24/7 guidance, from clinical mentorship to cultural exploration. You'll live in secure, gated residences with modern amenities, enjoying chef-prepared meals and a supportive community. Robust security protocols and comprehensive pre-departure briefings ensure peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

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