Nairobi, Dr. Cyrus Matheka, with his profound interest in forensic toxicology, is setting new standards in the field of diagnostic services in Kenya. His work, pivotal in solving complex murder cases through the examination of bodily fluids and tissue samples, is contributing significantly to the medical and legal fields in the country. Matheka’s journey from a Senior Medical Officer in Makueni County to pursuing a master’s in clinical pathology at Aga Khan University (AKU) showcases his dedication to enhancing healthcare delivery and diagnostic services across Kenya.
According to The Aga Khan University, Dr. Matheka’s career transition was driven by his passion for solving diagnostic challenges and his desire to have a broader impact on healthcare policy and management. His tenure at Makueni County involved overseeing significant healthcare projects, including universal healthcare management and improving maternal healthcare outcomes with World Bank funding. These roles not only honed his medical expertise but also his leadership and project management skills.
Dr. Matheka’s academic pursuit at AKU was further enriched by his involvement as the inaugural chair of the Aga Khan University Students Association (AKUSA), where he played a critical role in addressing student welfare issues and working closely with the university’s leadership to implement a 10-point agenda aimed at improving the residents’ welfare.
As Dr. Matheka prepares for his convocation on February 17, he is poised to make a substantial impact on Kenya’s healthcare landscape. He aspires to expand access to quality diagnostic services, particularly for rural populations that are currently underserved. His vision extends to ensuring that high-quality healthcare is accessible to all Kenyans, regardless of their geographic location or economic status.
Looking forward, Dr. Matheka has accepted a faculty position at AKU and plans to volunteer with the undergraduate program in medicine as a tutor and researcher. He is also committed to contributing to the Makueni County’s healthcare system, focusing on strengthening diagnostic services and policy development. Beyond his professional pursuits, Dr. Matheka is actively involved in community service, serving as a chairman and board member of various schools in Makueni County, and is passionate about agriculture and farming.
Dr. Matheka’s future plans include venturing into exotic bird rearing and pig farming, as well as furthering his studies with a Fellowship in Clinical Hematology or Forensic Toxicology. His contributions to forensic toxicology and diagnostic services are not only enhancing the medical field in Kenya but also providing a model for healthcare improvement and access in the sub-Saharan region.