- JOOTRH is in mourning following the death of former CEO George Rae, who died while receiving treatment abroad
- Rae fell ill during an official work tour in South Korea and later required specialised ICU care
- Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o and hospital leadership have paid glowing tributes to the medic’s legacy
TUKO.co.ke journalist Harry Ivan Mboto has over three years of experience reporting on politics and current affairs in Kenya
The Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) in Kisumu has been thrown into mourning following the death of its former Chief Executive Officer, Doctor George Rae.
Source: Facebook
Rae, fondly known as Papa by colleagues and staff, passed away on Friday, December 26, while undergoing treatment in South Korea.
He reportedly fell ill during an official work tour abroad and was later admitted for specialised medical care.
Confirming the news, JOOTRH acting CEO Joshua Clinton Okise described Rae as a fine gentleman and a dedicated leader, noting that his death had deeply shaken the hospital fraternity.
Until his passing, Rae served as the Head of Partnerships and Resource Mobilisation in the Kisumu County Department of Medical Services, Public Health, and Sanitation.
What Anyang’ Nyong’o said on Dr. Rae’s death
Kisumu governor Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o joined health workers and residents in paying tribute to the late medic, describing him as an exceptional servant of the people.
“It is with profound sorrow, deep grief, and a heavy sense of loss that I convey my heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and the entire healthcare fraternity following the untimely passing of Rae,” Nyong’o said in a statement.
“Rae will be remembered for his humane leadership. He believed in teamwork, listened attentively, mentored generously, and approached every challenge as a learner as much as a leader. We mourn with you and share in your pain,” the governor added.
Rae served as JOOTRH CEO from 2020 to February 2024, before handing over to Richard Lesiyampe.
Lesiyampe was later transferred to Kenyatta National Hospital, prompting Okise’s appointment in an acting capacity.
According to the hospital, Rae had been invited to the official handover ceremony but was unable to attend, having already begun his medical journey abroad.
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George Rae’s Legacy at JOOTRH
During his tenure, Rae spearheaded transformative healthcare initiatives, including the Sickle Cell ZERO movement, which culminated in Kenya’s first-ever national sickle cell conference.
The initiative also led to the formation of warrior support groups and the employment of trained “warriors” within JOOTRH to support patients.
He further played a key role in bringing bone marrow transplant services closer to home, hugely reducing the need for patients to seek care abroad.
Rae also championed the establishment of the Kwee Funeral Parlour, offering executive morgue services in the region, and oversaw the installation of an oxygen plant that proved critical during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additionally, he modernised the hospital’s kitchen to ultra-modern gas-powered standards and led the replacement of ageing hospital infrastructure.
Source: Facebook
Did Rae’s colleagues appeal for help before his death?
Earlier this month, Rae’s family and colleagues appealed to Kenyans to help raise funds for his treatment in South Korea.
The Kenya Medical Association (KMA) revealed that he had been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Seongae Hospital in Seoul and required approximately KSh 5 million to cover medical expenses.
“We humbly call upon all KMA members, colleagues, friends, and partners to stand with Rae and help us raise the needed funds as swiftly as possible. Your support can make the difference between life and recovery,” KMA said in a December 8 appeal.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
