Did Mercy Mwangangi Just Disappear Through Thin Air?

At the height of COVID-19 pandemic in Kenya, one name was synonymous; Dr. Mercy Mwangangi. Everyone knew this name, both young and old. She was the Ministry of Health’s Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS).

During that time, whenever Mercy was set to brief the nation on the status of COVID-19, two things would trend on X (Twitter); Mercy Mwangangi and the announcement she was to make, COVID-19. Many said they watched the COVID-19 updates because it was Mercy making them.

One of the most striking things that made her a darling of many then was her beauty (of course), reassuring smile, composure and a firm grip of the country’s pandemic situation, a time when the whole nation was in panic and the pandemic swept across the country.

Her calm demeanor, confident communication, and unwavering dedication to public health earned her admiration and respect from Kenyans across the nation. Amidst the uncertainty and fear that characterized the pandemic, Dr. Mwangangi’s presence provided a much-needed sense of reassurance and hope.

She was born in Machakos in 1986, and went to Pangani Girls, Nairobi, for her high school education. She then proceeded to the University of Nairobi graduated from the in 2009 with a Bachelor of Medicine and a Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) degree.

Her passion for healthcare and commitment to making a difference in her community led her to further her education with a Master’s degree in Health economics and Analysis. This solid educational foundation, combined with her determination and work ethic, paved the way for her ascent in the public health sector.

Before she was appointed CAS, Dr. Mwangangi held various positions that showcased her admirable expertise and dedication in transformative health management. She worked with international organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations, contributing to significant health initiatives aimed at improving health outcomes in Kenya and beyond.

In March 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit Kenya, Dr. Mwangangi found herself at the forefront of the country’s response efforts. Her role as CAS required her to communicate critical information to the public, provide updates on the evolving situation, and outline measures being taken by the government to curb the spread of the virus. It was during these press briefings that Kenyans became familiar with her poised presence and reassuring smile.

Dr. Mwangangi’s approach to communication was both professional and empathetic. She delivered complex medical information in a manner that was accessible and easy to understand, helping to alleviate public anxiety. Her ability to remain composed under pressure, coupled with her genuine concern for the well-being of the population, made her a trusted figure during one of the most challenging periods in recent history.

Beyond her role in crisis communication, Dr. Mwangangi played a pivotal role in shaping Kenya’s public health strategies during the pandemic. She advocated for rigorous testing, contact tracing, and the importance of adhering to health guidelines. Her efforts contributed significantly to the country’s capacity to manage the pandemic and mitigate its impact on the healthcare system.

Dr. Mwangangi’s leadership extended to addressing the broader implications of the pandemic, including its economic and social effects. She emphasized the importance of mental health, recognizing the toll that prolonged lockdowns and uncertainty had on individuals and communities. Her holistic approach to public health underscored the interconnectedness of physical, mental, and social well-being.

Before the coronavirus pandemic, Mwangangi was synonymous with UHC. If anyone needed to know how a certain population should be included in the plan, she was the person to ask. If one needed to know how much money would be needed and how to finance UHC, she was the person to ask. To date, she says UHC remains close to her heart.

But where is she now? She currently works as Senior Director of Health Systems Strengthening at Amref Health Africa Headquarters.. She also serves as the Global Co-chair, Future of Global Health initiatives.

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