Dr. Job Obwaka passed away on Friday at 7:00 pm at The Nairobi Hospital. His wife Everose Obwaka confirmed the news. Hospital sources indicated that he was brought in unconscious and was pronounced dead on arrival.
An autopsy is expected to establish the exact cause of death.
His death comes weeks after his arrest outside his surgery, an incident that alarmed Kenya’s healthcare professionals and drew scrutiny over the governance of The Nairobi Hospital.
The veteran medic had been unwell since mid-March after collapsing at Milimani Law Courts. This had occurred while he awaited arraignment over contested charges of falsifying hospital records.
He was rushed to the intensive care unit at Nairobi Hospital, where his condition progressively deteriorated.
According to Nelson Havi, a lawyer and former president of the Law Society of Kenya, Dr. Obwaka had been in fragile health for several years following a past major surgery.
Havi linked the doctor’s declining health to mounting legal and administrative pressures. He also cited what he described as government interference in the management of Nairobi Hospital.
He argued that the strain from the ongoing criminal case further worsened the medic’s condition.
On March 14, 2026, detectives arrested Dr. Obwaka at the NSSF Building parking area along Bishops Road. Police held him for three nights at Muthaiga Police Station.
Afterwards, he was charged alongside others over alleged falsification of records belonging to the Kenya Hospital Association.
The case, which also involves senior hospital officials, remains before the courts.
The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) strongly condemned his arrest and detention, citing his age, stature, and decades-long contribution to the medical field.
Many remember Dr. Obwaka as a distinguished medical professional. He devoted his life to advancing women’s health and strengthening medical leadership in Kenya. He was passionate about his career of over 40 years as a doctor.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale mourned his death.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Health, I convey deep sorrow following the passing of Dr. Job Obwaka at the age of 83, a veteran obstetrician and former Director at the Nairobi Hospital.”
“Dr. Obwaka devoted his life to advancing medical practice in Kenya, leaving an invaluable contribution to the medical fraternity through his clinical excellence, leadership and mentorship of generations of practitioners,” he said.
He added his work significantly strengthened standards of care. Noting that he also improved outcomes in maternal and reproductive health services across the country.
“We honour his distinguished service and commitment to humanity and we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues and the wider medical community during this difficult time.”
Featured image: Missing Child Kenya on Instagram
