The family of renowned Kenyan gynaecologist and obstetrician Dr. Job Masakhwe Lukuru Obwaka has announced his death, describing him as a devoted medical professional, family man, and respected member of the healthcare sector. He died on Friday, May 1, 2026, aged 78.
In a notice published in the Daily Nation on Wednesday, May 6, the family said Dr. Obwaka passed away peacefully, noting that his death marks the end of a distinguished career in medicine and public service.
Until his death, he served as a senior gynaecologist and obstetrician and was also a dedicated member of the Board of Directors at The Nairobi Hospital.
Dr. Obwaka was born on December 18, 1947, to the late Elly Masakhwe and the late Filister Abiero.
He is remembered as a man deeply rooted in family values and professional discipline, with colleagues describing him as a calm, authoritative voice in the medical field.
He is survived by his wife, Everrose Chemtai Obwaka, and was also husband to the late Florence Atenya Obwaka.
He was a father to Elly Masakhwe, Debora Abiero, Gerald Chesumba, Gloria Sheunda, Tony Wanga, Philly Abiero, and Dr. Chris Obwaka. He also leaves behind several grandchildren, including Keenan, Brandon, Miguel, Adrian, Noah, Kelani, Moraa, Evie, and Bellarose.
The obituary further highlights his close family ties, listing him as a brother to Aggrey Obwaka, Dr. William Obwaka, Anna Odembo, and several late siblings, including Grace Auma, John Okoth, Ruth Atieno, Charles Onyango, Enock Oduor, and Lydia Were.
The family described him as a loving uncle, cousin, colleague, and friend whose presence will be deeply missed. “His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled,” the notice read.
Funeral arrangements have already been set in motion. Daily meetings are being held at CITAM Valley Road in Nairobi on Wednesday, May 6, Thursday, May 7, Friday, May 8, and Monday, May 11, starting at 5:30pm. The memorial service will take place on Wednesday, May 13, at 10:00am at CITAM Valley Road.
His body will later be moved from Lee Funeral Home on Thursday, May 14, ahead of burial scheduled for Friday, May 15, 2026, at Musanda village in Mumias, Kakamega County.
Dr. Obwaka’s death comes as investigations continue into earlier reports surrounding his sudden passing, which had drawn public attention due to initial concerns of suspected poisoning.
However, preliminary postmortem findings pointed to cardiac arrest linked to a heart condition, with further toxicology tests still pending at the time of reporting.
Born into a large family and rising to become one of Kenya’s respected medical specialists, Dr. Obwaka’s legacy spans decades of service in maternal and reproductive health.
His colleagues at The Nairobi Hospital have described him as a pillar in the institution’s governance and clinical leadership.
As preparations for his final send-off continue, family, colleagues, and friends are expected to gather in Nairobi and later in Mumias to celebrate his life and contribution to Kenya’s medical field.