RADIO FEATURE: “The Unseen Guardians: Inside the Lives of Morgue Attendants”
In this radio documentary, Anne, a dedicated female mortician, exemplifies resilience and empathy, navigating both the emotional toll of her work and the stigmas attached to it

An Ai image featuring an African female mortician in a respectful, serene morgue setting, reflecting the dignity and empathy of her profession/Hubz Ai
By Jamillah Nasenya
In the shadowed realm of death, morgue attendants quietly work, their role largely hidden from public view. They perform essential duties: receiving, identifying, and preparing bodies, assisting with autopsies, and maintaining the cleanliness of morgue facilities. Though death is a daily sight, beneath their composed exteriors lies a range of emotions shaped by witnessing life’s most vulnerable moments.
Morgue attendants face societal misconceptions, but their deep compassion and dedication to treating the deceased with dignity and respect shine through. This radio documentary sheds light on these unsung heroes, debunking myths and exploring the challenges they face, particularly the women in this traditionally male-dominated field. Anne, a dedicated female mortician, exemplifies resilience and empathy, navigating both the emotional toll of her work and the stigmas attached to it.
In their quiet work, morgue attendants ensure that the deceased are honored, offering a profound comfort to grieving families. Their efforts, though unseen, make a lasting impact.