Former president of the Kenya Medical Association Stephen Ochiel passed away on October 19, 2025, at the age of 76.
Doctor Stephen Ochiel, a veteran Obstetrician and Gynecologist, was cremated on October 20, 2025, barely 24 hours after he died in Nairobi on October 19.
“It is with deep sorrow and humble acceptance of God’s will that we announce the passing of Dr Stephen Ochiel, MBS, on Saturday, 19th October 2025, in Nairobi,” confirmed Stephen Ochiel’s family in a funeral announcement.
In an obituary published in local dailies, the family announced that they had scheduled a fellowship session to celebrate Ochiel.
“A celebration of his life is scheduled for Friday, 24th October 2025, at St. Francis ACK Karen from 11:00 a.m., followed by lunch and fellowship at the same venue,” they said.
Education and Early Life of Stephen Ochiel
Stephen Ochiel had a distinguished educational background in medicine.
He earned his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) degree from the University of Nairobi in 1975.
Later, Stephen Ochiel pursued a Master of Medicine in Obstetrics and Gynaecology (M.Med Obs & Gyn) from the same institution in 1981.
Additionally, he holds a Diploma in Medical Education and a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy.
Career and Medical Contributions
Over the years, Stephen Ochiel served as a respected clinician and medical scholar.
His most notable leadership role was as the President of the Kenya Medical Association (KMA) from 2004 to 2008.
During his tenure, he was instrumental in spearheading the construction of the KMA Centre in Nairobi, which was officially opened in November 2012.
In this role, Dr Ochiel, oversaw KMA elections, especially the hot 2016 KMA elections that got KMA its first female Chair, Jackie Kitulu, now President of the World Medical Association (WMA).
Additionally, he was awarded the KMA Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2016 KMA Annual Scientific Conference AGM & Awards Ceremony in Kisumu for his contribution to KMA.
Also Read: Raila Odinga Dies at 80
Ochiel also served as Chief Medical Officer at various institutions and was involved in medical education as a lecturer at the University of Nairobi.
As a specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology based in Nairobi, Stephen Ochiel operated Easy Clinic which provided a wide range of services, including prenatal, postnatal, and family planning care, along with the diagnosis and management of gynaecological conditions.
Beyond clinical and academic roles, he was Chairman of the Kenya Medical Investment Company Ltd., advocating for advancements in Kenya’s medical infrastructure and professional standards.
Family Life
Born in 1949, Doctor Ochiel was the son of the late Claudio Ochiel Kochiel and Peres Ndege Ochiel.
He was a husband to Grace Akinyi Ochiel and Susan Kieti, and a father to Vincent and Lisa Don, Muthoni, Nicholas, Eric, and Brian.
Also Read: Deputy Auditor General Dies After Short Illness
Additionally, he was a grandfather to Jasper, Henry, Hawi, and Diju, and a brother to Mrs Mikal Odera, Mary Atieno Otieno, John Odhiambo Ochiel, Moses Ouma Ochiel, Eunice Akeyo Lombo, and several late siblings.
Kenya Medical Association President Mourns Ochiel
The Kenya Medical Association (KMA) has eulogized the late Dr Stephen Ochiel as a visionary leader and mentor whose influence shaped Kenya’s medical fraternity.
In a tribute, KMA President Dr Simon Kigondu described him as “a builder of institutions and dreams,” recalling his journey from the University of Nairobi graduate in 1975 to a distinguished Obstetrician and Gynaecologist who later served as Chief Medical Officer at the institution.
“On behalf of the Kenya Medical Association, I extend our deepest condolences to his family, colleagues, and friends. May his life’s work continue to inspire us all, and may his soul rest in eternal peace,” said Simon in his tribute.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
