In a heartfelt display of regional pride and national unity, Isiolo County Governor Abdi Ibrahim Guyo has extended warm congratulations to Dr. Zeinab Gura Roka on her recent confirmation as the substantive Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH).
This milestone appointment, following a rigorous board interview process, underscores Dr. Gura’s remarkable ascent in Kenya’s healthcare sector and serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring leaders from marginalized regions.
Governor Guyo, a staunch advocate for equitable development and healthcare access in Isiolo, hailed the achievement as a testament to perseverance and excellence, while expressing profound gratitude to President William Ruto and Cabinet Secretary for Health Aden Duale for their pivotal roles in recognizing talent beyond traditional power centers.
Dr. Zeinab Gura Roka, a native of Garbatulla township in Isiolo County, brings over 18 years of distinguished experience in clinical practice, program management, and strategic leadership to her new role at KUTRRH.
Her academic credentials are equally impressive, including a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery, a Master of Science in Applied Epidemiology, and a Master’s degree in International Studies.
Additionally, she holds the prestigious “ndc (K)” designation from Kenya’s National Defence College, reflecting her training in strategic national security and leadership.
Prior to her appointment, Dr. Gura served in key positions within the Ministry of Health, where she contributed to health systems reforms and healthcare digitization initiatives, positioning her as a forward-thinking leader poised to drive innovation at one of Kenya’s premier medical institutions.
The confirmation comes after Dr. Gura’s tenure as Acting CEO, which began in December 2024, during a period of transition at KUTRRH.
Initially appointed on an interim basis, her substantive role was solidified through a competitive board process earlier this year, with official announcements highlighting her vision for enhancing specialized care.
KUTRRH, a Level 6 National Referral Hospital with a 650-bed capacity, stands as a cornerstone of Kenya’s healthcare infrastructure.
Located on a 100-acre site adjacent to Kenyatta University in Nairobi, the facility specializes in oncology, cardiology, neurology, and advanced research, serving as a hub for teaching, referral services, and cutting-edge medical innovations.
Under Dr. Gura’s leadership, the hospital is expected to further its mission of providing patient-centered care, particularly in addressing non-communicable diseases and integrating digital health solutions amid Kenya’s push toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Governor Guyo, whose administration has prioritized healthcare transformation in Isiolo County, views Dr. Gura’s success as a personal and communal triumph.
Born and raised in the arid landscapes of Garbatulla, Dr. Gura’s journey from a modest background to helming a national flagship hospital resonates deeply with the governor’s own ethos of inclusive growth.
In recent months, Governor Guyo has actively engaged with national health authorities to bolster local services, including meetings with Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga to discuss county health priorities such as upgrading dispensaries, equipping facilities, and enhancing staff capacity.
These efforts align with his broader agenda, which includes constructing new health centers and ensuring accessible, high-quality care for Isiolo’s residents, many of whom face challenges due to the county’s remote and pastoralist nature.
In his congratulatory statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) and subsequently on Facebook, Governor Guyo emphasized Dr. Gura’s inspirational qualities:
“Hongera to Dr. Zeinab Gura Roka, ndc (K), on her confirmation as the substantive Chief Executive Officer of the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH) following a successful board interview process.
Dr. Zeinab’s dedication, exemplary leadership, and unwavering commitment to advancing healthcare in Kenya have been truly inspiring. Her appointment is a powerful reminder that regardless of one’s background, determination and excellence can open the door to remarkable achievements.
I extend my sincere gratitude to H.E. President William Ruto for recognizing and entrusting Dr. Gura with this critical responsibility, a well-deserved honour for an outstanding leader.
I also express my profound gratitude to Cabinet Secretary for Health, Aden Duale, for his steadfast support and encouragement, which have enabled leaders such as Dr. Gura to pursue excellence and serve our nation with distinction.”
This statement not only celebrates Dr. Gura but also highlights the collaborative spirit between county and national governments.
Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, who assumed the Health portfolio in recent cabinet reshuffles, has been instrumental in advancing reforms, including the launch of the Digital Health Agency’s strategic plan and transitions to permanent UHC staff terms.
Governor Guyo’s acknowledgment of Duale’s role underscores the importance of mentorship and policy support in elevating professionals like Dr. Gura.
President William Ruto’s administration has consistently emphasized merit-based appointments to drive Kenya’s development agenda, particularly in healthcare.
By entrusting Dr. Gura with KUTRRH’s leadership, the president continues to promote diversity and regional balance in key national positions, a move that Governor Guyo described as visionary.
This aligns with broader national goals, such as eliminating public health threats like human African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness), which Kenya achieved in August 2025 under the Ministry of Health’s guidance.
For Isiolo County, Dr. Gura’s appointment carries symbolic weight, inspiring youth and women to pursue careers in STEM and public service.
Governor Guyo, who has faced his own political challenges including impeachment attempts, remains focused on transformative projects that uplift his constituents.
As he noted, Dr. Gura’s story proves that “regardless of one’s background, determination and excellence can open the door to remarkable achievements.” This sentiment echoes across Kenya, where leaders like Governor Guyo are bridging local aspirations with national progress.
As KUTRRH embarks on this new chapter under Dr. Gura’s stewardship, stakeholders anticipate enhanced collaborations, improved patient outcomes, and groundbreaking research contributions.
Governor Guyo’s endorsement not only amplifies the celebration but also reinforces his commitment to fostering talent and brains from Isiolo, ensuring that the county’s voices resonate in the halls of national influence.
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