Dr. Betty Muthoni Gikonyo: A Trailblazer in Healthcare and Philanthropy
Dr. Betty Muthoni Gikonyo is a renowned pediatric cardiologist and visionary leader with a career spanning over 45 years. She has dedicated her life to transforming healthcare for children in Kenya and uplifting communities through her philanthropic endeavors.
As the co-founder of the Heart to Heart Foundation in 1993, Dr. Betty Gikonyo has championed life-saving initiatives for underprivileged children suffering from heart ailments. She and her husband pioneered the Heart Run in 1994, a popular annual charity event that continues to raise funds and awareness. Under her leadership, the Foundation provides curative services to children under 18 and promotes nationwide education on heart disease prevention.
 
Professional Journey and Contributions
Dr. Betty Gikonyo’s journey in medicine began as a medical officer, progressing to a pediatrician, and later becoming Kenya’s first female cardiologist. She has played a pivotal role in mentoring and training the majority of pediatric cardiologists in the country. Her impact extends beyond medicine to hospital administration, where she served as Hospital Administrator for 15 years.
Dr. Betty Gikonyo is the Founder and CEO of The Karen Hospital Healthcare System, which includes The Karen Hospital, a tertiary specialty hospital; eight satellite outpatient medical centers; a medical training college; and the Heart to Heart Foundation.
 
Leadership and Public Service
Her leadership extends to academia and public service. Dr. Betty Gikonyo served for 14 years on the University of Nairobi Council, rising to the position of Deputy Chair. She also founded and launched the University of Nairobi Alumni Association in 2005. Between 2004 and 2011, she chaired the Nairobi Health Management Board, transforming healthcare delivery in the city.
Dr. Betty Gikonyo is a trustee of the Presbyterian University of East Africa (PUEA) and an associate member of the Kagumo Old Boys Association.
 
Recognition and Awards
Dr. Betty Gikonyo has received numerous accolades for her contributions, including:

• Presidential Awards: Moran of the Burning Spear (MBS) in 2008 and Silver Star (SS) in 1998.

• CEO Global Limited East Africa Regional Award: Most Influential Woman in the Medical Category, 2017.

• International Women’s Day Recognition: Highlighted as one of the women who made Kenya, Sunday Standard, 2020.

• Leadership in Healthcare Award: 2023 Quality Healthcare Awards.

• Kenya@60 Recognition: Named among the 60 most inspiring women in Kenya, Daily Nation, 2023.

Media Features and Authorship
Dr. Betty Gikonyo’s inspiring story has been showcased internationally on CNN African Voices and the BBC’s Africa Business Report, and locally across print and television media. She is also the author of The Girl Who Dared to Dream, an inspiring memoir that highlights her journey and the power of philanthropy.
 
Community Engagement
A charter and active member of the Rotary Club of Karen and a Paul Harris Fellow, Dr. Betty Gikonyo continues to uplift and inspire young girls, including as an alumna of Kiamabara Primary School in Nyeri County.
Above all, Dr. Betty Gikonyo remains steadfast in her commitment to accessible healthcare and giving back to society. She is truly The Girl Who Dared to Dream, embodying courage, innovation, and compassion.