Rosendo Ribeiro

Goan physician in Kenya

Rosendo Ayres Ribeiro (1871–1951) was a pioneering physician in Kenya, known for being the first private medical practitioner in Nairobi and for his unique mode of transport, a zebra.

Early Life and Education

Rosendo Ribeiro was born in 1871 in Goa, which was then a Portuguese colony. He pursued his medical education in Lisbon, where he graduated with a degree in medicine. His early education laid the foundation for his future contributions to medicine in East Africa.

Career in Kenya

Ribeiro moved to British East Africa in 1900, settling in Nairobi, which was then a burgeoning town. He became the first private medical practitioner in the city, establishing a practice that catered to the diverse population of the region, including European, Asian, and African communities.

Medical Contributions

Ribeiro is credited with diagnosing the first case of bubonic plague in Kenya in 1902. His timely identification of the disease was crucial in preventing a widespread epidemic. He worked closely with the colonial authorities to implement measures to control the outbreak, showcasing his commitment to public health.

Unique Mode of Transport

Rosendo Ribeiro riding a zebra

Ribeiro was famously known for riding a zebra, which he had domesticated, as his primary mode of transport. This unusual choice was both a practical solution to the lack of suitable horses and a symbol of his adaptability and innovative spirit.

Later Life and Legacy

Ribeiro continued to practice medicine in Nairobi until his retirement. He was a respected figure in the community, known for his dedication to his patients and his pioneering spirit. He passed away in 1951, leaving behind a legacy of medical innovation and cross-cultural engagement.

Related Pages

• History of Nairobi
• Healthcare in Kenya
• Bubonic plague
• Goan diaspora