Dr. David Silverstein, Cardiologist to Kenyan President Daniel arap Moi, Dies at 82
Dr. David Silverstein, a pioneering American Jewish cardiologist and personal physician to former Kenyan President Daniel arap Moi, has passed away at 82.
Life and Legacy of Dr. David Silverstein
Dr. David Silverstein, an American Jewish cardiologist who became one of the most prominent and beloved figures in Kenya, passed away today at the age of 82. His death marks the end of an extraordinary life journey that saw a physician from the United States become one of the closest confidants of former Kenyan President Daniel arap Moi.
Born in Chicago and raised in a traditional Jewish family, Silverstein graduated from the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine in 1967. After completing his medical studies, he served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War before specializing in cardiology. In 1974, he arrived in Kenya and decided to make it his permanent home, establishing himself as a pioneer of cardiology in the East African nation.
Medical Pioneer and Presidential Physician
Silverstein worked at the Kenyatta National Hospital, helped develop the country's modern cardiology services, and trained generations of local physicians. However, the chapter that cemented his historic status in Kenya began in 1977, when he first met Daniel arap Moi, who was then serving as vice president.
Silverstein subsequently became Moi's personal physician, a role and relationship that spanned more than four decades until the former president's passing in 2020. The Moi family paid tribute to him today, emphasizing the unwavering dedication, empathy, and deep friendship that defined his care for his patient.
Community Leader and Bridge Builder
Beyond his medical duties to the head of state, Silverstein was deeply involved in the life of Nairobi's small Jewish community, serving effectively as its leader during periods when the community lacked a resident rabbi. His unique bond with President Moi also connected him to Israel, with the two traveling together and discussing Judaism and biblical history.
"David was a bridge between worlds, serving as a physician, a friend, a community leader, and a steadfast pillar of our shared values for decades."
In 2023, Silverstein published his memoir, Heartbeat: An American Cardiologist in Kenya, documenting his life, his pioneering medical career, and his remarkable decades alongside President Moi. His passing is mourned by the Kenyan healthcare sector, the Moi family, and the Jewish community in Nairobi alike.
