Lukoye Atwoli is a Kenyan psychiatrist, academic, and global health advocate. He currently serves as Dean of the Medical College at Aga Khan University (East Africa) and is recognized internationally for his contributions to psychiatry, mental health policy, and medical education.
Lukoye is celebrated for combining clinical expertise, research, and leadership in mental health. His work has influenced health policies in Kenya and beyond, making him one of the country’s most respected medical professionals.
Early Life and Background
Lukoye Atwoli was born and raised in Kenya, the son of veteran trade-union leader Francis Atwoli. Growing up in a family that valued public service, he developed a strong sense of social responsibility early in life.
His interest in medicine was influenced by a desire to help people while engaging with community challenges. This combination of social awareness and academic ambition paved the way for his future in psychiatry.
Education Journey
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) – Moi University
- Master of Medicine (MMed) in Psychiatry – University of Nairobi
- PhD in Psychiatry and Mental Health – University of Cape Town, South Africa
- Additional training in Disaster Mental Health
His education prepared him to combine clinical care, research, and leadership, giving him the tools to manage complex mental health programs and policies.
Career / Academic and Medical Work
Clinical Practice
Lukoye has worked as a consultant psychiatrist in various institutions, including Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital. He has also led mental health programs for victims of trauma and gender-based violence, demonstrating hands-on commitment to patient care.
Academic Leadership
He served as an associate professor at Moi University School of Medicine before becoming Dean of Aga Khan University Medical College (East Africa). In these roles, he has mentored students, supervised research, and expanded academic programs in mental health.
Research and Policy
Lukoye has authored over 50 peer-reviewed publications and actively contributes to global mental health discussions. He has been involved in national health policy, advising on mental health, disaster response, and trauma care.
He also holds leadership roles in professional associations, including serving as Secretary-General of the African Association of Psychiatrists.
Achievements and Recognition
- Elected as an international member of the National Academy of Medicine, a major global honor.
- International Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association.
- First African appointed as International President of the World Health Summit Regional Meeting.
- Key contributor to Kenya’s mental health policies and institutional leadership in hospitals and universities.
Personal Life and Family
Lukoye is the son of Francis Atwoli, a prominent Kenyan trade-union leader. He maintains a professional image and keeps his personal life private. His focus remains on clinical work, research, and mentoring the next generation of medical professionals.
Lifestyle and Interests
Lukoye’s lifestyle reflects his dedication to work, research, and education. He travels internationally for conferences and collaborations but remains grounded in clinical practice and policy advocacy.
He is known for balancing high-profile leadership with hands-on work in psychiatry and public health.
Fun Facts / Lesser-Known Details
- Supervised multiple masters and PhD students in psychiatry and mental health.
- Specialized research on trauma and PTSD in African contexts.
- Involved in programs promoting mental health resilience in urban populations.
- Maintains both clinical and academic responsibilities simultaneously.
- Regularly writes articles on mental health and social issues.
- First African to hold the presidency of a World Health Summit regional meeting.
