John Muchangi

Nairobi

Science Editor and Writer at The Star (Kenya)

Kenyan science journalist. Health and Environment Writer/ Editor @TheStarKenya

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Articles

Kenyan scientists want to grow cholera vaccine in potatoes

2 days ago | the-star.co.ke | John Muchangi

In Summary“Public skepticism toward genetically modified organisms (GMOs) further complicates their acceptance, particularly for vaccines intended for direct consumption.” The scientists identified three popular potato varieties grown in Kenya –Shangi, Sherekea, and Wanjiku – which can carry the cholera vaccine. Imagine biting into a potato and getting vaccinated. No needles, no pills, just immunity served on a plate.
Cured but cast out: Life after childhood cancer in Kenya

2 days ago | the-star.co.ke | John Muchangi

In SummaryBullying was common. “Some people were against them returning to school because they believed cancer survivors were contagious, bewitched, or would be feared by fellow students,” the report added. The children's cancer ward at the Kenyatta National Hospital. When Kenyan children survive cancer, the fight doesnot end at remission. Instead, a quieter, more insidious struggle begins – one fought in schools, communities, and even families.
“Looks can kill”: Why this skin doctor says beauty is a health issue

5 days ago | the-star.co.ke | John Muchangi

Dr Pancholi argues that improving how we look isn’t vain, it’s a crucial part of healing minds and bodies. Health03 June 2025 - 12:00In SummaryThere is a study with very interesting results I looked at back when I was becoming a cosmetic dermatologist. A beautiful face and one that wasn’t as beautiful were placed in front of babies. The results showed that the babies spent more time staring at the beautiful face. Dr Pranav Pancholi is a cosmetic dermatologist in Nairobi.
Bill Gates to donate most of $200 billion pledge to Africa

5 days ago | the-star.co.ke | John Muchangi

In SummaryGates called for prioritising primary healthcare, emphasising that “investing in primary healthcare has the greatest impact on health and wellbeing.” Bill Gates giving his address on Monday in Nelson Mandela Hall at the African Union in Addis Ababa. Bill Gates has announced that the majority of his $200 billion spend over the next 20 years will go to Africa.
She just needed rain. Instead, she thought of suicide

5 days ago | the-star.co.ke | John Muchangi

A woman pulling water drums. The scientists found clear, measurable links between extreme weather events and increased levels of depression and suicidal thoughts. What does climate change have to do with suicide? A lot more than you might think. A new Kenyan study has found that as temperatures rise, rains disappear, and food becomes scarce, many women begin to spiral into depression, and some start thinking about ending their lives.
Duale wants health data moved to local servers after US cut critical support

6 days ago | the-star.co.ke | John Muchangi |Mathews Ndanyi

Health CS Aden Duale/FILEThe Ministry of Health is now calling for health data to be processed and hosted on locally developed platforms, after the US cut off access to critical medical records. Most national health record systems in Kenya are funded by the US government, which withdrew funding in February. Health CS Aden Duale, speaking at the World Health Assembly in Geneva last week, urged African countries to devise homegrown solutions and reduce reliance on external data management systems.
Why politicians are going under the knife

6 days ago | the-star.co.ke | John Muchangi

Dr Pranav Pancholi, one of Kenya’s top cosmetic dermatologists /HANDOUTSomething facial, not fishy, is happening in the quiet hallways of government buildings. Kenya’s politicians and cabinet secretaries are going under the knife, not for life-saving interventions but for cosmetic enhancements aimed at rolling back the years and refining their public image. Help us continue bringing you unbiased news, in-depth investigations, and diverse perspectives.
Interview: Kenya’s fossil man enters global hall of fame

1 week ago | the-star.co.ke | John Muchangi

Prof Fredrick Manthi in his field research at a site called Kanapoi 3 in Turkana County. Photo/Leakey Foundation. By examining fossils, Prof Fredrick Kyalo Manthi helps us understand how life on Earth has evolved over time. He is a leading Kenyan palaeontologist and the Director of Antiquities, Sites, and Monuments at the National Museums of Kenya.
Kenya scores 4th globally in trusting scientists

1 week ago | the-star.co.ke | John Muchangi

Many people want scientists to play a more active role in public life and to work closely with politicians.Kenyans trust scientists more than most people in the world, according to a sweeping global survey. The study, which involved over 71,000 participants from 68 countries, ranked Kenya fourth globally in trust in scientists – trailing only Egypt, India, and Nigeria, and coming ahead of countries like the United States, China and most of Europe.
Cold season slowly settling in, says Met

1 week ago | the-star.co.ke | John Muchangi

Motorists driveon a floodedroad followingheavy rainfall inNairobi /XINHUAResidents of Nairobi andthe surrounding highlands willexperience a noticeable chill as thecold season sets in. The weatherman has said thecold season is slowly settling overNairobi and around Mt Kenya. This is premium contentSubscribe to Continue ReadingHelp us continue bringing you unbiased news, in-depth investigations, and diverse perspectives.