Dr Job Obwaka has died at the age of 83. The veteran gynaecologist and former board chairman of The Nairobi Hospital passed away at the same facility where he dedicated much of his professional life. His family confirmed the sad news, bringing to a close a career marked by decades of service to mothers and newborns across Kenya.
Obwaka built a strong name as one of the country’s most experienced obstetricians and gynaecologists. He spent years helping women through pregnancy and delivery, earning respect from colleagues and patients alike.
Later, he took on leadership at The Nairobi Hospital, serving as board chairman during a time when the institution faced growing internal tensions over management and ownership of its valuable land.
His health took a noticeable turn for the worse in recent weeks. This came shortly after a dramatic arrest that many described as heavy-handed. Police picked him up from his clinic parking area at the NSSF Building in Nairobi.
Along with other board members, he faced charges related to alleged falsification of the hospital’s members register and issues around conflict of interest. The elderly doctor denied any wrongdoing.
The arrest happened amid ongoing wrangles about how the private hospital should be run. Some saw it as part of a bigger push by certain interests to take greater control. Obwaka and his colleagues had secured anticipatory bail beforehand, yet the detention still went ahead.
Things became even more worrying when he fell seriously ill while waiting at the Milimani Law Courts. An ambulance rushed him back to Nairobi Hospital for urgent care. He looked frail as he received treatment, with his son Chris staying close by.
Family members and close associates believe the stress from the government interference and the legal troubles sped up the decline in his health. They point to what they call ‘trumped-up charges’ and ‘constant pressure’ as factors that weighed heavily on the old man.
Medical unions like the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union spoke out against his detention at the time, calling it troubling for a doctor of his age and standing. They argued that the specific accusations did not even fall directly under his responsibilities as a board member.
Obwaka had served patients with dedication for over five decades. Many who knew him remember his calm approach and deep knowledge in his field. He trained younger doctors and contributed quietly to improving maternity care standards in both public and private sectors.
His leadership at Nairobi Hospital came during challenging times when the facility balanced its role as a top private health provider with community expectations.
The news of his passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from the medical fraternity and former patients. Some described him as a gentleman who always put duty first. Others noted how his final months were clouded by boardroom battles that turned personal and public.
Questions linger about the governance issues at the hospital and whether the charges against him and other directors will continue now that he is gone.
His wife Everose confirmed the death, saying he slipped away peacefully while receiving treatment. Reports indicate he arrived at the hospital unconscious on Sunday evening, and doctors could not revive him.
The timing, just weeks after the court appearance and health scare, has left many in the medical community reflecting on the pressures faced by senior professionals caught in institutional conflicts.
Kenya has lost a quiet giant in women’s healthcare. Obwaka represented an older generation of doctors who combined clinical skill with administrative wisdom. His story also highlights the human cost when leadership disputes spill into courtrooms and affect personal well-being.
At 83, he should have been enjoying retirement surrounded by family and the gratitude of thousands of mothers whose lives he touched.
Friends and colleagues have called for calm reflection as the hospital moves forward. They hope the internal disagreements can be settled without further harm to those who have given so much to the institution. F
For now, arrangements for his burial are being made, and many expect a large turnout from the medical world and beyond to honour his contributions.
Many young doctors who trained under him or benefited from his guidance say they will remember his commitment and professionalism. In a country where quality maternal care remains a priority, his passing leaves a noticeable gap.
