Susan Nakhumicha Wafula is a prominent Kenyan politician, supply chain expert, and the current Cabinet Secretary for Health.
With a strong background in logistics and supply chain management, she brings extensive experience and expertise to her new position.
Susan Nakhumicha's background & education
Born in Kitale, Kenya, Susan Nakhumicha Wafula grew up in a diverse and vibrant community.
She attended the Kenya Medical Training Institute (KMTC), where she earned a diploma in Pharmacy.
Committed to expanding her knowledge and skills, she pursued further studies and obtained a diploma in Healthcare Management from the Kenya Institute of Management.
In 2012, she enrolled at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) to pursue a master's degree in procurement, logistics, and supply chain management.
Later on, she successfully completed her Ph.D. in Business Management, specializing in Logistics and Supply Chain.
Susan Nakhumicha's career
Susan Nakhumicha Wafula's career has been marked by her dedication to supply chain management and healthcare logistics.
She has held notable positions in renowned organizations, contributing to the optimisation and efficiency of supply chain operations.
Susan's experience includes working at Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies, where she honed her skills in procurement and logistics.
She later joined the UCSF Institute for Global Health Sciences, where she served as the Head of Supply Chain. Her expertise in agile and intelligent supply chain solutions has made her a respected figure in the industry.
Nakhumicha's political history
Susan Nakhumicha Wafula ventured into politics and ran for the position of Trans Nzoia Woman Representative under the Ford Kenya party.
Although she faced strong competition from the UDA candidate Lilian Chebet Siyoi, her political aspirations demonstrate her commitment.
As her political journey progresses, Susan aims to leverage her expertise in supply chain management to contribute to the development and improvement of the healthcare sector in Kenya.
Scandal's in Susan Nakhumicha's ministry
KEMSA Scandal
Nakhumicha has been involved in efforts to address corruption at KEMSA, particularly related to a botched Sh63.7 million tender for mosquito nets.
She worked to prompt investigations by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and supported President William Ruto’s decision to sack the entire KEMSA board and suspend its CEO.
NHIF fraud cases
In June 2023, Nakhumicha suspended several NHIF branch managers following revelations of fraudulent activities involving NHIF staff and healthcare facilities. This was part of a broader effort to address corruption in the health insurance sector.
Following an exposé by NTV, eight NHIF managers were suspended for their role in a scheme that exploited elderly patients.
These patients were convinced to travel to certain healthcare facilities where they received free medical services, and NHIF was subsequently billed large sums of money for these treatments.
Nakhumicha's net worth
While her exact financial details are not publicly disclosed, as a cabinet minister, Susan Nakhumicha receives a substantial salary and benefits.
According to the Salaries and Remuneration Commission ( SRC), her position entitles her to a basic salary of Sh554,400, along with a house allowance of Sh200,000 and a market adjustment of Sh169,600, resulting in a monthly gross income of Sh924,000.
Additionally, she also receives a commute allowance.
READ: Health CS Susan Nakhumicha: Kenya is a country where interns earn more than the actual doctors
Nakhumicha's family & husband
Susan Nakhumicha Wafula prefers to keep her personal life private, and details about her marital status or family members are not publicly known.
She focuses on her professional endeavors and serving the public in her role as Cabinet Minister for Health.