The Summer 2025 cohort of Elective Africa’s internship program in Mombasa, Kenya brought together aspiring doctors, nurses, physician assistants, dentists and other healthcare interns from across the globe for an experience that blended hospital rotations, community service and cultural exploration. Over several weeks, participants improved their clinical understanding, engaged with local communities and discovered the vibrant history and natural beauty of Mombasa all while building skills that will serve them in their healthcare careers.

At the heart of the program was the opportunity to rotate through various hospital departments at Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital, the largest referral and teaching facility in the Coastal region of Kenya. Interns engaged in structured clinical learning, guided by experienced local mentors who provided valuable context on patient care in resource-limited settings.

Rotations spanned specialties such as emergency medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics & gynecology, internal medicine and more. This diverse departmental exposure allowed interns to encounter a wide range of medical conditions, from tropical diseases to complex surgical cases, many of which are rarely seen in their home countries. By observing the decision-making processes and resource allocation in each department, participants deepened their appreciation for global health challenges and the importance of adaptable, problem-solving clinical thinking.

In addition to their regular rotations, interns had the rare opportunity to observe and contribute to specialized medical camps organized by the hospital. During a Neurosurgery Camp, which covered 13 neurosurgical procedures, they gained insight into intricate surgical techniques and the teamwork required for complex brain and spine operations. At a five-day Pediatric Surgical Camp, which treated 18 children, interns observed and discussed a variety of procedures learning how pediatric surgical care is adapted in a regional referral setting.

These camps not only enhanced their clinical understanding but also highlighted the impact of concentrated outreach efforts in improving access to specialized care for underserved populations.

Before beginning their hospital work, interns attended a comprehensive hospital orientation covering professional etiquette, patient confidentiality, safety procedures and departmental workflows. This preparation ensured they could navigate the hospital environment with confidence, respect for cultural norms and sensitivity to patient needs.

Beyond the hospital wards, Elective Africa’s Summer 2025 program placed a strong emphasis on giving back to the community. Interns participated in a range of outreach initiatives, from health education visits to local schools to engagements with orphanages. These activities allowed participants to see firsthand how preventive health measures and awareness campaigns can improve the well-being of entire communities.

One highlight was a visit to a local school where interns held interactive educational sessions on three key topics: dental hygiene, reproductive and menstrual health and mental health awareness.

These outreach sessions were more than just lectures, they were opportunities for two-way dialogue where students asked questions, shared their own experiences and built trust with the visiting interns. By the end of the day, participants had not only shared knowledge but also empowered young people with resources and confidence to take control of their health.

Such initiatives complemented the interns' clinical learning by offering a broader view of the social determinants of health from access to hygiene products to the influence of health education on long-term outcomes. They returned to their hospital rotations with a deeper understanding of how healthcare extends far beyond clinical treatment and into everyday life in the community.

No experience in Mombasa would be complete without exploring its rich cultural and historical heritage. Guided tours took participants through the winding alleys of Old Town Mombasa, where Swahili, Arab, and Portuguese influences converge. Visits to Fort Jesus, spice markets, and other local attractions provided context to the region’s unique history.

Outside the city, interns explored the pristine beaches of the Kenyan coast like Diani Beach, wildlife parks and even neighboring towns, discovering how travel and medicine can intertwine to form a truly well-rounded educational journey.

Throughout the summer, participants benefitted from continuous mentorship provided by hospital supervisors and Elective Africa program coordinators. This guidance helped them navigate both the technical aspects of their rotations and the cultural nuances of practicing medicine in Kenya.

Mentorship also extended to discussions on career planning, offering insights into how international healthcare internships improve readiness for advanced clinical training.

Elective Africa’s Summer 2025 program was an integrated experience that combined clinical exposure, cultural understanding and personal growth. By working in diverse teams, engaging with patients from different backgrounds and reflecting on their experiences, interns returned home with expanded perspectives and renewed motivation for their future in healthcare.

As we look ahead, applications are now open for our Fall 2025, Winter 2025 and Summer 2026 internship programs. Whether you’re preparing for medical, PA, nursing or dental school, strengthening your residency application or seeking a deeper understanding of healthcare in a global context, our programs offer structured hospital rotations, meaningful community engagement and guided cultural exploration. Secure your place today and take the next step toward a transformative healthcare internship abroad.