Dr David Silverstein, the long-serving personal physician to former President Daniel arap Moi, has died.
His death was announced on Sunday, September 13, 2026, by former Baringo Senator and KANU leader Gideon Moi, who mourned the doctor on behalf of the Moi family.
Gideon described Silverstein as a dedicated physician who left a lasting impression on those he treated, praising his attention to detail and compassion.
“It is with deep sorrow that we mourn the passing of Dr. David Silverstein, the long-serving personal physician to the late retired President H.E. Mzee Daniel arap Moi,” Gideon said.
He said Silverstein’s relationship with Moi went beyond that of a doctor and patient.
“To him, Mzee Moi was not merely a client. He was a human being whose health, dignity and wellbeing mattered deeply to him,” Gideon said.
Silverstein first treated Moi in 1977 when the former president was Vice President. Their relationship continued for more than four decades until Moi died in February 2020.
During Moi’s presidency, Silverstein travelled with him on several foreign trips and remained closely involved in his medical care.
At Moi’s burial in February 2020, Silverstein spoke about their 42-year relationship, describing the former president as an obedient patient who followed medical advice on medication, diet and lifestyle.
Beyond his association with Moi, Silverstein was a prominent figure in Kenya’s medical sector.
He was among the pioneers of cardiac care in the country and helped establish Kenya’s first cardiac catheterisation laboratory at Kenyatta National Hospital after arriving in Kenya in the 1970s. He later headed the hospital’s cardiology unit and served as chief cardiothoracic physician for the Government of Kenya.
He also taught medical students at the University of Nairobi and trained a generation of doctors during his long career in Kenya.
Silverstein later documented his experiences in Kenya and his relationship with Moi in his memoir, Heartbeat: An American Cardiologist in Kenya, published in 2023.
Gideon extended the Moi family’s condolences to Silverstein’s family, led by his wife, Channa Commanday.
“We are deeply grateful to them for allowing Dr. Silverstein to walk with Mzee Moi throughout his journey of health. His care and friendship will always be remembered with gratitude,” Gideon said.
He prayed for Silverstein’s family to find strength during the period of mourning and for the doctor to be granted eternal rest.
