Sonnia Nzilani Musyoka completed her PhD at BOKU University in 2020 through the support of the APPEAR programme. After graduating, she returned to South Eastern Kenya University, where she shared her knowledge and passion as a dedicated educator.
In November 2022, she took a significant step forward in her public service career when she was appointed County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Lands, Urban Planning, Environment, and Climate Change. Later, she was transferred to serve as CECM for Trade, Marketing, Industry, Culture, and Tourism, a role she held at the time of her passing. Her dedication, vision, and commitment to community-centered development made her a respected and inspiring figure.
While still a student, Sonnia founded the Kibwezi Center for Sustainability, an organization committed to environmental conservation, gender equality, access to education, climate change adaptation and mitigation, and public health initiatives. Through her work she empowered communities and raised awareness for a more sustainable future.
Sonnia leaves behind a legacy of service, compassion, and transformative leadership. Her impact will continue to be felt by the many people and communities whose lives she touched.
We extend our deepest condolences to her children, her entire family, friends, colleagues, and the entire Makueni community.
May her legacy encourage us all to work together for a more sustainable and equitable future.
Rest in peace, Sonnia. You will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Watch this video to hear Sonnia Nzilani Musyoka talk about her professional career and environmental work in Kenya.
