Title: Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro Faces Mounting Pressure as Sh150 Million Health Scandal Exposes Deep Crisis
Kilifi County’s health sector is reeling from a major corruption scandal implicating senior officials in Governor Gideon Mung’aro’s administration, sparking public outrage and renewed calls for accountability. The controversy erupted after former Finance Executive Shoshi Yaye allegedly refused to approve KSh150 million in questionable payments for non-pharmaceutical supplies, a move that insiders claim cost her job and triggered retaliation from top county officials. The scandal has intensified scrutiny of procurement practices within the county, especially after revelations that the disputed work plan originated from the office of Chief Officer for Health David Mulewa — the Governor’s brother.
Behind the political storm lies a deteriorating health system marked by shortages, mismanagement, and alleged cover-ups. Health workers across Kilifi report chronic understaffing, expired medication, broken equipment, and widespread intimidation, with some saying they are punished for questioning irregularities. Ambulance drivers admit they often ask patients to contribute fuel money due to persistent shortages, while nurses describe routinely improvising essential services in facilities where oxygen, drugs, and basic supplies run out for days. The crisis reflects a pattern of controversial procurement deals in recent years, including cancelled tenders, questionable payments exceeding KSh70 million in legal fees, and fraud cases tied to private clinics billing the Social Health Authority for nonexistent services.
As the scandal unfolds, civil society groups, residents, and health advocates are demanding a forensic audit of the health and finance departments, the reinstatement and protection of Shoshi Yaye as a whistle-blower, and a public explanation from Governor Mung’aro. However, county leadership has remained largely silent, fueling fears that the latest revelations may follow the path of past scandals that ended without meaningful accountability. With hospitals on the brink and public confidence eroding rapidly, Kilifi’s health crisis has revived debate on whether devolution is achieving its promise — or enabling deeper corruption. The coming weeks will determine whether the county addresses the rot or whether residents will continue to pay the highest price for a system in disarray.