President William Ruto has commended former Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha for her dedication and achievements while serving in his administration.
Speaking during former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson Wafula Chebukati’s funeral at his Sabata home in Kiminini, Trans Nzoia County, on Saturday, March 8, 2025, Ruto acknowledged Nakhumicha’s efforts in the health sector, stating that she did a remarkable job.
He also expressed confidence in the current Health CS, Deborah Barasa, emphasizing that the government is committed to ensuring success in the ministry.
“Na lazima niwashukuru hawa warembo wawili. Susan Nakhumicha alianza na mimi and she did a wonderful job. Na sasa niko na Deborah Barasa na ananisaidia kwa haraki iyo, na tutafaulu,” Ruto stated.
The President’s remarks came after Kiminini MP Maurice Kakai urged him to consider Nakhumicha for future government appointments. Kakai, who represents Nakhumicha’s home constituency, highlighted her competence and contributions to the country’s health system. He reminded Ruto that many leaders and citizens recognized her dedication and requested that she be given another role in government.
“I am the people’s representative of Kiminini, my siter Susan Nakhumicha did a great job. Mama Mary has said how competent she was, remember her in future appointmnets ata ukiendelea kupangapanga,” Kakai said.
Jobless
In her speech, Nakhumicha opened up about her life after being dismissed from office during President William Ruto’s Cabinet reshuffle in June 2024. Nakhumicha was among the Cabinet Secretaries affected by the changes, which came at the peak of the Gen Z-led anti-government protests.
Speaking during Chebukati’s funeral, Nakhumicha recalled how she first learned of her dismissal. She revealed that she was at home watching television when the announcement was made, catching her off guard. The decision, she noted, was met with widespread celebration across the country.
“Nilikuwa waziri wa afya hii mitandao ikakuja, wakasema ma Gen Z wanaanguka na watu, wakaanguka na mimi,” she said.
Adding;
“Bishop amehubiri hapa akasema wakati wa Rais Moi ilikuwa matangazo kwa redio hii nayo yetu haikuwa ya redio. Ilikuwa kwa TV unangojea, nikaskia cabinet yote iende nyumbani, nikaona watu wamefurahi kila mahali.”
Reflecting on her journey since leaving office, Nakhumicha shared that she has since turned to farming in her home area of Cherenganyi. She expressed her reliance on faith during this transition, emphasizing that she has embraced agriculture as her new occupation, focusing on growing and selling cabbages.
“Tangu siku hiyo mimi nimemtazamia Mungu, hata sasa mimi nafanya ukulima, sina kazi. Napanda na kuuza cabbage huko Cherenganyi.”
