Former Health CS Nakhumicha has been appointed Kenya’s UN envoy amid a government reshuffle. Her new role follows a turbulent cabinet term marked by public protests against health policies. Nakhumicha expressed her challenges transitioning to civilian life and regrets over unresolved doctors’ strikes during her tenure. She remains hopeful for the future as she embarks on her diplomatic journey.
Former Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha has been appointed as Kenya’s Permanent Representative to UN-Habitat following her dismissal during a cabinet overhaul by President William Ruto. This diplomatic nomination marks a new beginning for Nakhumicha after a challenging tenure at Afya House, where discontent over health policies had reached a climax during protests by the younger generation.
President Ruto announced Nakhumicha’s nomination as part of a wider restructure of his administration, which did not include certain prominent figures like Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi. Nakhumicha had previously been removed from office on July 11, 2024, amid public outcry against government policies.
In her remarks post-dismissal, Nakhumicha expressed the hardships of transitioning from a cabinet position to civilian life. She noted the emotional struggle of shifting from a high-profile role to being an individual again, revealing, “You sleep as a CS, and when you wake up, you are not one.” Despite these challenges, she remains hopeful for better opportunities ahead.
Reflecting on her time as Health CS, Nakhumicha acknowledged her regret over the inability to resolve the issues stemming from long-standing doctors’ strikes, which significantly affected her tenure. Despite the turmoil, she continues to seek divine support as she prepares for her new role at UN-Habitat.
Susan Nakhumicha’s nomination as Kenya’s Permanent Representative to UN-Habitat signals a new direction following her turbulent experiences as Health CS. Her transition underscores the complexities of political life and the challenges faced during her past role, particularly surrounding health-related protests. As she steps into her new diplomatic position, her perspective on her prior experiences highlights both the struggles and hopes she carries into this phase of her career.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
