MAKUENI COUNTY TRADE CECM SONNIA NZILANI MUSYOKA PASSES AWAY

Her death was confirmed by colleagues, with reports indicating she died at her home on November 22.

“Until her untimely demise, Dr. Nzilani served with dedication and distinction as the County Executive Committee Member for Trade, Marketing Industry, Culture & Tourism in my administration. Her commitment to public service and her passion for the growth of our county will be deeply missed,” read the statement.

“She was an accomplished environmentalist and a passionate advocate for tree growing, earning from the public the affectionate nickname “Syomiti” for her unwavering commitment to environmental conservation.”

Nzilani became a notable figure in county leadership and community development, although she faced public backlash over controversial remarks during her service.

Sonnia Nzilani Musyoka had a strong academic background in natural resources and environmental sciences.

She earned her PhD from the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences in Vienna, Austria, completing her doctoral studies in 2020 through a scholarship program financed by Austrian Development Cooperation.

Following her PhD, she resumed teaching at South Eastern Kenya University, where she was promoted to Head of the Department of Hydrology and Water Resources Management.

Additionally, she holds a Diploma of Education in Project Management, attained in 2021.

Educated with a strong background in environmental science and public service, Dr. Sonnia Nzilani Musyoka held various leadership roles, including previously serving as the CECM for Lands, Urban Planning, Environment, and Climate Change.

She chaired the Inter-County Planning Committee for the Konza Buffer Zone under the Konza Technopolis Development Authority and led the Makueni County Environmental Committee.

She was also the founder and chairperson of the Kibwezi Center for Sustainability, an NGO founded in 2018.

In her career, Nzilani was involved in multiple county projects focusing on sustainability, climate change action plans, and capacity building with prior consultancy roles supporting organizational development.

Her contributions significantly impacted Makueni’s trade and environmental sectors as well as community empowerment initiatives.