By correspondent

Siaya County’s drive to achieve universal access to clean and safe water has entered a new phase with the official site possession for the Ugunja-Ukwala-Sega Last Mile Connectivity Project held at the Siaya-Bondo Water and Sanitation Company (SIBOWASCO) offices in Ugunja.

The project, implemented under the Kenya Towns Sustainable Water Supply and Sanitation Programme (KTSWSSP), is jointly financed by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Government of Kenya. It is scheduled for completion in 9 months, on 14th April 2027.

Closing the Final Gap: From Bulk Supply to Household Taps

The last mile works represent the most critical link in a flagship investment chain that began with the KSh1 billion Ugunja-Sega-Ukwala Water Supply and Sanitation Project, commissioned by H.E. President Dr William Ruto on 31st August 2025.

That project established bulk infrastructure designed to produce and supply over 8.4 million litres of treated water daily, serving more than 100,000 people across Ugunja, Sega and Ukwala. Key storage facilities include steel tanks at Nyambiro (300m³), Yenga (300m³), St. Sylvester Anyiko (500m³), Madungu (1,000m³), and a reinforced concrete ground tank at Got Osimbo (1,500m³).

In a unique sustainability feature, the scheme incorporates three hydropower turbines to generate renewable energy, cutting power costs and ensuring uninterrupted water production.

The current phase will now connect residents directly to that bulk system.

Project Scope and Implementation

The contract, signed on 8th July 2026 and awarded to Shaanxi Water Resources and Hydropower Engineering Group Co., covers:

1. 88.5 km of distribution pipeline – installation, pressure testing and commissioning.
2. 1,200 new smart-enabled consumer connections – for accurate billing and water accountability.
3. 50 institutional connections – targeting schools, health centres and markets.
4. Smart zonal metering system – for leak detection, water loss management and efficient supply monitoring.

The project is being implemented by Central Rift Valley Water Works Development Authority (CRVWWDA) as the Employer, with engineering supervision by Lake Victoria South Water Works Development Authority (LVSWWDA). A 12-month Defects Notification Period will run until 14th April 2028 to guarantee quality.

SIBOWASCO: At the Centre of Service Delivery

A critical partner in the project is Siaya-Bondo Water and Sanitation Company (SIBOWASCO). Upon completion, SIBOWASCO will take over operations and maintenance of the new network.

Its mandate will include customer onboarding, meter management, billing, customer care, and ensuring sustainable water and sanitation services for residents of Ugunja, Ukwala and Sega. The introduction of smart meters is expected to enhance transparency, reduce non-revenue water, and improve response times to faults.

Speaking during the handover, SIBOWASCO Managing Director, Isaiah Adipo, said:

“Our focus is on delivering value for money and improving customer satisfaction. Implementation plans have been designed to prioritise areas where the impact will be greatest, so that residents feel the benefit of this investment immediately.”

County and National Government Commitment

Siaya County Chief Officer for Water and Irrigation, Judith Oyugi, described the project as a strategic investment that complements the County Government’s agenda.

“Water remains one of the most emotive issues affecting our people. While this project targets Ugunja Sub-County directly, its impact will be felt across the county. We must ensure we maximise the reach to solve a significant fraction of our water challenges,” she said.

The project aligns with Governor James Orengo’s development agenda, which prioritises expanded access to clean water as a pillar for public health, economic growth and improved quality of life. The County Government continues to work with the National Government and development partners to increase reliable water services across all six sub-counties.

Impact Expected

Upon completion, the project is projected to:

• Increase household water connections significantly
• Reduce the distance residents, especially women and children, travel to access water
• Support schools, health facilities and businesses with reliable supply
• Unlock opportunities for local economic growth and improved public health

With funding under KTSWSSP scheduled to conclude in December 2026, all partners have committed to timely delivery and close collaboration with community leaders.

The site handover was attended by SIBOWASCO management, technical officers from CRVWWDA and LVSWWDA, County Government officials, and representatives from Shaanxi Water Resources and Hydropower Engineering Group Co.

Al Musasia

Politics has always had two kinds of leaders.

The first understands that movements become stronger when new voices emerge, when allies gain influence, and when leadership is shared. Such leaders measure their success by the growth of the cause.

The second believes every new voice is a rival, every rising star is a threat, and every political stage must revolve around one central character. They measure success not by the strength of the movement, but by the preservation of their own influence.

The recent confrontation between Rigathi Gachagua and Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata over the Linda Mwananchi campaign in Ol Kalou offered Kenyans a glimpse into which kind of leader Gachagua may be becoming.

A Coalition Cannot Have Gatekeepers

Opposition politics is built on one simple principle: everyone who shares the mission should be free to mobilise the people. That is how successful movements are built.

When one opposition leader publicly tells another where they may or may not campaign, the issue ceases to be about logistics. It becomes a question of ownership.

Who owns Mt. Kenya?

Does the region belong to its people? Or does it belong to whichever politician believes he has become its sole custodian? Governor Kang’ata was not campaigning for President Ruto. He was not launching a rival movement. He was supporting an opposition candidate under the broader United Opposition.

If the objective is defeating the Kenya Kwanza administration, why should that be viewed as interference rather than reinforcement? That question deserves an honest answer.

The Language Revealed More Than the Politics

Words often expose what strategy attempts to conceal. By dismissing Kang’ata as “mtu wa kiherehere,” Gachagua transformed what could have been an internal strategic discussion into a public display of political territoriality.

Strong leaders rarely need to diminish allies.

Confident leaders rarely feel threatened by additional voices. Movements that are certain of themselves do not fear reinforcement. Instead of expanding the opposition’s footprint, the conversation became about protecting political boundaries. That should concern every Kenyan who hopes to see a united opposition in 2027.

Politics of Monopoly

Political monopolies rarely strengthen democracies. They weaken them. History repeatedly shows that whenever one individual begins believing that an entire community must speak through him alone, the movement gradually stops growing.

New leaders become suspects.

Independent voices become enemies.

Popularity becomes a threat instead of an asset.

The movement slowly transforms from a national project into a personal enterprise.

This is perhaps the greatest danger facing the opposition today.

Not President Ruto.

Not state resources.

Not incumbency.

But the temptation among influential leaders to become indispensable.

No democracy should ever depend on one political gatekeeper.

Why Emerging Leaders Matter

Every successful political movement has been built by allowing multiple leaders to flourish simultaneously.

When Barack Obama emerged, the Democratic Party did not suppress him because other leaders already existed.

When Nelson Mandela walked out of prison, the African National Congress did not insist that only established figures could speak for the movement.

When younger leaders rise, mature movements make room for them. They do not close the door.

Governor Kang’ata’s growing visibility should therefore be viewed as an opportunity – not a danger. Every additional credible opposition voice expands the coalition. Every attempt to suppress such voices narrows it.

The Proxy Candidate Problem

The deeper question extends far beyond Ol Kalou. It concerns the future presidential ticket.

Throughout history, political kingmakers have often preferred candidates they can influence over candidates capable of inspiring the broadest national coalition. The calculation is understandable. A manageable leader preserves influence. An independent leader redistributes it.

But what benefits political brokers does not always benefit voters. If coalition decisions become driven primarily by who can be controlled rather than who can unite Kenya, then the opposition risks entering the next election with a ticket designed to satisfy internal power arrangements instead of maximising electoral victory.

That would be a tragic mistake.

The Greatest Gift to William Ruto

President William Ruto does not necessarily need the opposition to become unpopular. He simply needs it to become divided.

He needs coalition partners to question one another. He needs regional leaders competing over political territory. He needs allies becoming rivals. He needs ambition to replace unity.

History shows that incumbents often survive not because they persuade more voters, but because their challengers fail to persuade one another.

Internal fragmentation has defeated many opposition movements long before voters ever cast a ballot. That is the danger now confronting Kenya.

Mt. Kenya’s Historic Responsibility

Mt. Kenya remains one of the country’s most consequential voting blocs. Its people deserve access to every opposition leader, every campaign, every competing vision, and every national conversation.

No politician, however influential, should become the gatekeeper through whom every political message must pass. Communities grow stronger through choice, not through political monopolies.

The future of Mt. Kenya should be determined by its citizens, not by whichever leader believes he alone possesses the key to State House.

The Choice Before the Opposition

The disagreement over Ol Kalou is ultimately not about one rally. It is about the character of the opposition itself. Will it become a coalition where strong leaders empower other strong leaders? Or will it become an alliance where influence is carefully rationed, visibility is tightly controlled, and every rising figure is viewed with suspicion?

Kenyans are searching for an alternative to politics built around personalities. They are searching for a movement built around principles.

The opposition must therefore decide whether it wishes to become a national coalition, or merely a collection of competing political estates.

Because if personal influence becomes more important than collective victory, the greatest beneficiary will not be Rigathi Gachagua. It will not be Irungu Kang’ata. It will not even be the opposition. It will be President William Ruto.

And history may ultimately record that the road back to a second Ruto term was not paved by the strength of the government, but by the inability of the opposition to share the stage.

By Anderson Ojwang

President William Ruto could be doing everything earthly possible within his means to secure a second term, but his efforts keep on being watered down by the very people he has entrusted with responsibility.

In a moving, emotional and hearty speech by the President to the Harambee Starlets and Junior Starlets on their successes, Ruto was humbled by the captains’ speeches and expected no hitches as the Starlets were expected to depart for Morocco.

The excited and smiling President wished Kenya’s senior women’s football team success at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, while celebrating the Junior Starlets for securing a second consecutive qualification to the FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup.

“Your journey reminds us that excellence has no age, and that discipline in the classroom and discipline on the playing field reinforce each other. You are going to Morocco to wear the colours of Kenya on the biggest stage in African football. There is no greater honour for any sportsman or sportswoman than representing your motherland before the world,” he said in glowing tribute.

In a touching and moving speech, Junior captain Beverly Awuor told the President that they come from a humble background in the sprawling Kanyas’ slums.

“We come from a very humble background, and the majority of our parents cannot afford medical cover. Affordable housing? We come from the slums. Remove us from the slums,” she said.

She said the journey to success has been thorny, but they decided to put the interest of the nation above the challenges.

“The journey has not been smooth sailing; we have had challenges. We have not looked at the challenges, but we fought to bring home success. Now we have qualified for the World Cup; we request medical cover for the players and the technical bench,” she said.

When the government officers lied to the President

President Ruto, sublimed by the success, innocently said all the outstanding allowances had been paid to the team.

“All other things have been done. I have been briefed by the Permanent Secretary for Sports, Elijah Mwangi, that all allowances have been paid, and we made sure that whatever it is that is on the part of the government has been done. He tells me he has already paid out Sh33 million to make sure all of us are going in the right direction. If there would be any other additional issue, I will make sure that everybody is taken care of,” he said.

President Ruto said his administration did not want the team distracted by unpaid allowances.

“If there is something still outstanding, we will make sure everybody is taken care of. We want you to play without a background that there is something outstanding. I promise you, when all this is done, we will come back and agree on the way forward,” he said.

When the officers could no longer conceal the truth anymore

The import of Kenya’s 2010 Constitution came into play when the team engaged in peaceful protest at the FKF Goal Project offices, immediately demanding payment of their outstanding allowances before departing for their final pre-WAFCON training camp in France.

The protesting players shouted “No money, no flight” while carrying twigs and water bottles.

Issue resolved

Harambee Starlets captain Mwanahalima Adam said the dispute was resolved and that they agreed to travel to France.

“Everything has now been sorted, and we are ready to travel to France to prepare well and give our best,” she said.

Mwangi engaged the Harambee Starlets and presented Sh10 million as a gift from President Ruto.

Payment

Harambee Starlets players received the outstanding FIFA Series allowances, with the only pending payments being allowances for the two international friendlies against Zambia and Lesotho played in Zambia, the two matches against Ivory Coast in Ivory Coast in 2025, and the ongoing WAFCON tournament allowances.

Hosting

This week the President has hosted various sports personalities, including Migori Youth Football Club and AFC Leopards, at State House. The move by the President to host the sporting fraternity will go a long way in mobilising and consolidating his vote block.

Shall we tell the President?

Did PS Mwangi lie to the President to make an unverified pronouncement on the payment of the players’ allowances? Shall we tell the President the truth about the outstanding allowances after his commitment?

By Team

Kenya’s Chief Executive Officer of the Year, Dr Purity Ngina of the National Gender and Equality Commission, has been indicted by the internal audit report over a Sh30 million budget variance.

Similarly, the CEO is on the spot over the diversion of Sh24,137,429 from programme departments to the Executive Offices, which had no budget allocation.

“The Executive Offices incurred expenditure of Sh24,137,429 without an approved budget allocation, resulting in diversion of resources from programme departments during the period under review,” read the report.

The report also established that the review of expenditure against the approved budget allocation for the period July 2025 to March revealed significant variance across departments.

The overall expenditure amounted to Sh40,892,869 against the approved budget of Sh71,607,844, resulting in an unutilised balance of Sh30,715,300.

“The Audit noted low absorption of allocated funds in some departments, particularly the SIG department, which utilised only Sh4,072,300 out of the allocated Sh57,800, resulting in a variance of Sh53,727,300. This indicates under-implementation of planned activities,” the report read in parts.

The Legal Complaint and Redress Department was allocated Sh3,380,000 and only spent Sh616,440, occasioning a variance of Sh2,963,560.

The Monitoring, Evaluation and Knowledge Management Department also recorded under-expenditure from the allocated Sh1,136,300 and spent Sh719,600, leaving a budget variance of Sh416,900.

The audit report also noted over-expenditure in the Research Department and Regional Coordination Department, amounting to Sh14,300 and Sh2,241,146 respectively, indicating expenditure beyond approved budget provisions.

The Research Department allocation was Sh988,760 but spent Sh1,003,100.

The Regional Coordination Department was allocated Sh8,012,654 but spent Sh10,348,800, an excess of Sh2,241,146.

The Executive Offices were not allocated any budget but spent Sh24,157,429, with a variance of Sh24,237,439.

Implication

The report noted significant budget variance, underutilisation, and over-expenditure, which indicated weak budgetary control leading to non-implementation of planned activities and affecting the achievement of the commission’s objectives.

Spot

The report also put Dr Ngina on the spot over the implementation of activities valued at Sh14,668,157.20, which were outside the approved work plan and budget allocation.

The report revealed glaring financial mismanagement and blatant abuse of office by the officers.

Similarly, the Special Audit Review on programme implementation, budget performance and expenditure for the Financial Year 2025/2026 revealed that during the period, the Executive Offices initiated 21 activities costing Sh24,138,429.12.

“Out of the 21 activities undertaken, only two had been planned and included in the respective programme directorate workplans, while 19 were unplanned and had not been captured in the approved programme workplan,” read the report.

The report further revealed that 11 out of the 19 unplanned executive activities were approved by the CEO despite confirmation from the Finance Department that the budget had been depleted and no funds were available.

The emerging questions are: why did the CEO of the Year implement activities outside the approved work plan and budget even after she was advised by the Finance Department about depleted funds? Why did the Commissioners allow the blatant abuse of office to go unheeded under their watch, and what disciplinary actions have they taken so far on the CEO?

The report seen by Western Insight revealed that 21 activities under the Regional Coordination Department and Executive Offices, amounting to Sh14,668,157.72, were implemented outside the approved work plan and budget allocation, resulting in the diversion of resources from planned activities.

Activities approved and implemented without budget provision

The following were the activities that were implemented outside the work plan:

Executive Offices

The Executive Offices incurred a total of Sh8,427,900, which the CEO approved even after being advised that the budget had been depleted, while others had no budget at all.

• Participation of NGEC in the IX International Scientific and Practical Conference in Moscow, Russia, which incurred Sh2,224,250 – the foreign travel did not consider the budget line.
• Request for facilitation on the official visit to the late Raila Odinga’s home in Bondo-Siaya County, where Sh449,600 was incurred. It was approved with no budget indication.
• Participation as an observer in the Pan African Parliamentary Election in South Africa and participation in the Pan African Women’s Organisation Council meeting in Angola. The activities incurred Sh1,755,213; the budget was depleted, first charge 2026/2027.
• Participation in COP30-UN Climate Change Conference in Brazil, which incurred Sh2,339,400, approved in February 2026; budget depleted.
• Participation of NGEC in the Nyota Business Start-Up Capital Disbursement Programme, where the Commission incurred Sh230,000, and there was no budget.
• First Annual Nyeri Youth Summit-CBO, where the Commission incurred Sh78,400; the budget had been depleted.
• 2025 Annual National Multi-Stakeholders Conference – there was no budget, but the Commission incurred Sh474,390.
• Request for facilitation to attend the Public Service End of the Year Reflection Dinner in Kisumu – this was approved, but the budget had been depleted. The Commission incurred Sh101,400.
• Request for facilitation to attend the official flag-off of the 2025/2026 Kenya Mini Demographic and Health Survey – approved while the budget was depleted, and the Commission incurred Sh113,000.
• Participation in the funeral of Mzee Weston Kiricho Kanja, the father of the Inspector General of Police – approved while the budget was depleted, as the Commission incurred Sh61,000.
• County Children’s Prayer Day in Nyeri Town – approved but the budget was depleted, and the county incurred Sh84,000.
• Citizens Engagement Initiative in Nyeri Town Constituency – approved while the budget was depleted, and the Commission incurred Sh247,400.
• Peace Walk and Burial Ceremony in Nyeri County – approved while the budget was depleted, and the Commission incurred Sh123,200.
• Participation in World Water Day – approved while the budget was depleted; the Commission incurred Sh155,400.

Department of Regional Coordination

The activities in the Department of Regional Coordination were:

• NGEC-JICAGBX Elimination Project in Kajiado and Machakos counties, with a total of Sh932,400 approved when funds were depleted but implemented.
• NGEC-JICAGBX Elimination Project in Baringo County, incurring a total of Sh446,200; funds were depleted but implemented.

Department of Monitoring and Evaluation

In the Department of Monitoring and Evaluation, the activity was an invitation to a High-Level Sector Workshop, of which Sh226,800 was incurred. Funds were depleted but implemented.

• Development of a Status Report on Equity and Inclusion in Boards of Management and Top Management – there was no budget but was approved and implemented at a cost of Sh702,100.

Special Interest Group

• Commemoration of the Day of Persons with Disabilities – approved, depleted budget, and implemented at a cost of Sh100,000.
• International Women’s Day Celebrations – approved, depleted budget, implemented at a cost of Sh1,640,200.
• Commemoration of International Day of Zero Tolerance Against FGM – budget depleted but implemented at a cost of Sh425,000.

Observation

The report said the Commission failed to comply with the approved work plan and the Public Finance Management Act.

The report observed that the action was contrary to the Public Finance Management Act 2012, Section 68(1), which requires an accounting officer of a national government entity to be accountable to the National Assembly for ensuring that the resources of the respective entity for which he or she is accounting officer are used in a way that is lawful and authorised, and effective, efficient, economical and transparent.

It recommended that all activities were to be implemented within the approved workplan and budgets, and that any amendments were formally approved and supported by appropriate budget reallocation to prevent budget overruns and enhance accountability.

The series continues.

By Anderson Ojwang’

Facts don’t lie. Truth is bitter and hard to swallow. But the reality is that the former Cabinet Minister Eliud Owalo has raised the bar in sports administration.

Owalo, the Gor Mahia patron, is a man on a mission. A man on the move to redefine not only Gor Mahia’s fortunes but to set a precedent in football management in the country.

In the footsteps of his grandfather, the late Yohana Owalo, who founded the Nomiya Church, which was the first church in independent Kenya from the missionaries.

Owalo was among the first Luo to convert to Christianity between 1901 and 1902. Yohana was so convicted that his grandson Eliud has borrowed in sports management and particularly and intentionally Gor Mahia.

Snippets of Owalo’s contribution as the patron

When Eliud Owalo was appointed substantive patron of Gor Mahia in November 2025, the club was enduring one of its most difficult periods in recent years.

Owalo inherited a club battling inconsistency, financial uncertainty and low morale. The struggles that cost Gor Mahia the 2024-25 title continued into the new campaign, with an early defeat to Bidco United and a series of poor performances leaving the team stuck in mid-table. Rather than focusing solely on football matters, Owalo sought to strengthen the structures around the club.

“The future of football lies in running clubs professionally and independently. Clubs must move away from dependence on donations, gate collections and short-term sponsorship deals. Instead, he wants Gor Mahia to become a commercially driven institution capable of generating sustainable income.”

“We want Gor Mahia to operate like successful clubs elsewhere in the world and build long-term financial stability,” he said during a stakeholder engagement. Part of that strategy has involved expanding membership, strengthening merchandising and professionalising the club’s management structures.

In 2020, he donated playing kits and tracksuits ahead of the club’s CAF Champions League match against APR of Rwanda. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he hosted players at Sarova Panafric and provided financial support when football activities had been suspended.

Witnessed signing of a Ksh7.5 million sponsorship agreement between Gor Mahia and Spiro

“Today, I was delighted to witness the signing of a sponsorship agreement between Spiro and Gor Mahia FC, marking the beginning of a strategic partnership that will see Spiro become the Club’s Official Electric Mobility Partner. Under the agreement, Spiro will sponsor Gor Mahia FC to the tune of KSh 7.5 million annually, providing timely support as the club prepares for a demanding season that includes the CECAFA Championship, the Kenya Premier League, and the CAF Interclub competitions. Present at the signing ceremony were Spiro Country Head Vishal Mittal, alongside Raymond Kitunga and Flora Limukii from Spiro. Gor Mahia FC was represented by Secretary General Nick Arum, Treasurer Gerphas Okuku, Administration Manager Ronald Ngala, Chairman of the Gor Mahia Fan Branches (COC) Paul Ochar, and COC Secretary George Awino. This partnership is a vote of confidence in Kenyan football and demonstrates the critical role the private sector can play in supporting sports development. Congratulations to Spiro and Gor Mahia FC. Together, we move the game forward.”

Led Gor Mahia management in meeting with German subsidiary, ONEflow Sports

“I have this evening led Gor Mahia management in a meeting with ONEflow Sports, a subsidiary of logistics conglomerate ONEflow GmbH of Stuttgart, Germany. We explored possible areas of collaboration and partnership. The ONEflow team included Director of ONEflow Sports, Jesper Larsen; Head of Academy ONEflow Sports Berni Petersen; Head coach, Miguel de Souza; and Ben Leed, Director for the East African Region. The Gor Mahia Management was led by Chairman Ambrose Rachier; Secretary General Nick Arum; and Treasurer Gerphas Okuku. Strategic partnerships are imperative ahead of the CAF Champions League.”

Gor Mahia land Sh30 million Plascon deal ahead of continental campaign

“This morning, at the Movenpick Hotel in Westlands, Nairobi, I witnessed the signing of a new three-year Ksh30 million sponsorship deal between Gor Mahia FC and Kansai Plascon Kenya Ltd. The Plascon team was led by MD Kota Enami while the Gor Mahia Management was led by Chairman Ambrose Rachier. On behalf of the entire Gor Mahia fraternity, I thank Plascon for the sponsorship and appeal to more corporate sponsors to come on board ahead of the CAF Champions League.”

Hosted Gor Mahia FC to a luncheon in honour of their success

“Today, I hosted a luncheon at the Carnivore Restaurant in honour of Gor Mahia FC following their 22nd Kenyan Premier League success. In attendance were members of the club’s leadership, led by Chairman Ambrose Rachier, Vice Chairperson Sally Bollo, Treasurer Gerphas Okuku, and Administration Manager Ronald Ngala. Present was the technical bench led by Head Coach Charles Akonnor, and the playing unit led by team captain Philemon Otieno. The occasion provided an opportunity to celebrate the team’s remarkable achievement and reaffirm our collective commitment to strengthening the team ahead of the CAF Champions League.”

By Anderson Ojwang

A comedian and a student at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST), the home turf of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Dr Oburu Oginga, of the “Tunataka Pawa” movement, stole the show in propagating development for the university.

While Dr Oburu and other leaders have had unfettered access to President William Ruto and have been constant visitors to State House on numerous occasions, they have failed to address the university’s stalled project with the President.

The 700-capacity library has stalled for the last 11 years and has been an eyesore at the institution.

It took the wisdom of the actor ‘Prof Aduol’, aka Oburu Junior, to grab the opportunity to address the decades-old stalled library at the university.

Aduol, who imitates and mimics Dr Oburu, rode his way to State House through the invitation of Uriri MP Mark Nyamita during a presentation by Migori Youth Football Club to the President after winning the Super League and promotion to the Premier League.

Nyamita, after speaking, invited Prof Aduol to the stage to break the ice, and in his form, he left the President and the audience in stitches.

“Your Excellency, before I invite the Governor, allow me to introduce the party leader. Bwana Party, kindly be upstanding and address the audience,” he said.

In his mien, Aduol briskly and majestically walked to the podium as the audience went into delirium and applause.

“Aah, aaah, Your Excellency the President, aaah, aah, the Governor of Migori County and the, the Uriri MP, aah, is it morning? Good morning. Mr President, I think I am very much happy. Last time I was here, I told you something special. That there should be some development of democracy for some development to continue the way they are continuing. Your Excellency, you know, I used to tell my son, but for me, I want to say the truth, I voted for you. I voted for you and it is the truth. I like the energy you are using to support these young people. As the youth leader, I come from Bondo, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University. I just want to tell you, come there. There is a library which has been there for so long. Since my father died, it is there. Your Excellency, come and finish that library, and we are saying fifty-term. Thank you, Your Excellency,” he said.

Challenge to the Odingas

The university named after the doyen of opposition politics deserves the best. The current ODM party leader and seeker of “Pawa” should rise to the challenge and mobilise funds for the completion of the facility. That is where the Odingas’ hearts are doing “tulutulu.”

By Anderson Ojwang

From a humble beginning, self-belief and passion, the journey of Migori Youth Football Club is a remarkable moment. A landmark imprinted in their lives.

Football has once again moved to open the doors to Migori Youth players, exposing them to opportunities that they only dreamt of and never in their lives thought would come to pass.

On Monday, it was another milestone for the players: a State House visit, interaction with President William Ruto, and the high and mighty in the government and football circles.

President’s goodies

President Ruto opened the interaction with a cocktail of goodies for the team ahead of the Premier League journey.

“Congratulations. I know we have talents in the country. For you to get organised to win, it is not a small thing. Success doesn’t just come. It takes effort. As you graduate to the Premier League, your assignment is to go and win,” he said.

President Ruto donated a bus to the team to enhance logistical arrangements.

“I was requested to get you a bus several months ago by your patron Mark Nyamita. I did not know you were going to win the Super League. You have made me proud. Today, I am not only handing over a bus to you but handing the bus over to Super League champions. Many people may think I am handing over the bus because you won. No, we had already planned the bus before. I am proud that a team from Migori won the league; it is not common to win the Super League,” he said.

Sponsorship

President Ruto accepted to intervene on behalf of the team with the sponsor, Mozart, to upgrade the sponsorship.

“I want to encourage our good friend Mozart to help you, and I will speak to the management to see if they can enhance the sponsorship. My son is already in your team and supporting you. He has been updating me, and we will help you and mobilise more friends and funds to support you,” he said.

He said the government was constructing the Migori Stadium to nurture talents and to be the home ground for the team.

The political comedians

But the occasion did not fall short of the Migori County political comedians, led by the grandson of Sinakuru Kukulubanga ma Dogman, alias Oyundi, Governor Dr Ochilo Ayacko, and his partner in crime, Chiwawa alias Othuogo, Uriri MP Mark Nyamita.

The two political comedians carried the comedy to State House, with Ayacko explaining to President Ruto the lineage of the Kalenjin and the Luo community through Sinakuru and the relationship.

But Nyamita took the war a notch higher by asking the President not to interfere when the electorate has decided to send Ayacko home and those other leaders who have failed to deliver to the electorate.

“We are looking forward to a very exciting season. The main reason why we are here is to say thank you. We request for partners and we ask for your interventions,” he said.

Ayacko said his administration was setting aside some funds to support the team and give them the opportunity to excel.

“I sincerely thank H.E. the President for his unwavering commitment to empowering our young people through sports and for donating a team bus to Migori Youth FC. This generous support will greatly ease the club’s travel for league fixtures across the country as they embark on a new chapter in the top tier of Kenyan football. The President and I reaffirmed the Governments’ (National and County) commitment to completing the construction of a modern stadium in Migori, a transformative investment that will provide world-class facilities for nurturing talent, creating opportunities for our youth, and positioning Migori as a regional sporting hub,” he said.

Meeting after meeting

CS Energy Opiyo Wandayi hosted the team and promised to support them in their future engagements.

“A champions’ visit. Delighted to host 2025/26 National Super League winners, Migori Youth FC, led by Club Patron Hon. Mark Nyamita as they prepare for life in the FKF Premier League,” he said.

Wandayi congratulated them for being an inspiration to other youths that sports pay.

“Earlier today, I had the pleasure of receiving the management, technical bench, and players of Migori Youth FC when they made a courtesy call at my office following their remarkable achievement as the 2025/26 National Super League Champions. Their historic title-winning campaign is a testament to discipline, hard work, determination, and the immense football talent within our region. By clinching the National Super League crown, Migori Youth FC has earned well-deserved promotion to the FKF Premier League, marking a significant milestone for the club and its supporters,” he wrote.

The CS said the achievement was a realisation that a dream can be turned into a reality.

“This achievement serves as an inspiration to young people across the country, demonstrating that commitment, teamwork, and perseverance can turn dreams into reality. Congratulations to Migori Youth FC on this outstanding accomplishment. We wish the team every success as they prepare to compete at the highest level of Kenyan football,” he wrote.

Kisumu Senator Prof Tom Ojienda wrote: “I joined Cabinet Secretary Hon. Opiyo Wandayi and Hon. Mark Nyamita in celebrating Migori Youth FC following their remarkable triumph as the 2025/26 National Super League champions. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the players, technical bench, and management on securing promotion to the FKF Premier League. This outstanding achievement reflects the values of discipline, resilience, teamwork, and determination. Your success is an inspiration to young people across our region and a powerful reminder of the immense potential of Kenyan talent when nurtured and supported. I wish Migori Youth FC every success as they embark on this exciting new chapter in the top flight of Kenyan football.”

Support

Nyamita said the visit witnessed additional support for the team from Wandayi and Ojienda.

“Our FKF SportPesa League journey continues to attract incredible support. This afternoon, together with the Migori Youth FC leadership, we met the Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum, Hon. Opiyo Wandayi, who pledged KSh 2 million towards the club’s preparations for our maiden top-flight season. We were also honoured to have Senator Prof. Tom Odhiambo Ojienda, SC, who contributed KSh 1 million in support of the team. We sincerely appreciate both leaders for believing in our vision as we prepare to proudly represent Migori on the national stage,” he wrote.

By Team

The Chief Executive Officer of the National Gender and Equality Commission, Dr Purity Ngina, is on the spot over the implementation of activities valued at Sh14,668,157.20, which were outside the approved work plan and budget allocation.

Ngina was recently declared as the winner of the Best Performing CEO of the Year category during the Bobea Leadership Awards.

The report revealed glaring financial mismanagement and blatant abuse of office by the officers.

Similarly, the Special Audit Review on programme implementation, budget performance and expenditure for the Financial Year 2025/2026 revealed that during the period, the executive offices initiated 21 activities costing Sh24,138,429.12.

“Out of the 21 activities undertaken, only two had been planned and included in the respective programme directorate workplans, while 19 were unplanned and had not been captured in the approved programme workplan,” read the report.

The report further revealed that 11 out of the 19 unplanned executive activities were approved by the CEO despite confirmation from the Finance Department that the budget had been depleted and no funds were available.

The emerging questions are: why did the CEO of the Year implement activities outside the approved work plan and budget even after she was advised by the Finance Department about depleted funds? Why did the Commissioners allow the blatant abuse of office to go unheeded under their watch, and what disciplinary actions have they taken so far on the CEO?

The report seen by Western Insight revealed that 21 activities under the Regional Coordination Department and Executive Offices, amounting to Sh14,668,157.72, were implemented outside the approved work plan and budget allocation, resulting in the diversion of resources from planned activities.

Activities approved and implemented without budget provision

The following were the activities that were implemented outside the work plan:

Executive Offices

The Executive Offices incurred a total of Sh8,427,900, which the CEO approved even after being advised that the budget had been depleted, while others had no budget at all.

• Participation of NGEC in the IX International Scientific and Practical Conference in Moscow, Russia, which incurred Sh2,224,250 – the foreign travel did not consider the budget line.
• Request for facilitation on the official visit to the late Raila Odinga’s home in Bondo-Siaya County, where Sh449,600 was incurred. It was approved with no budget indication.
• Participation as an observer in the Pan African Parliamentary Election in South Africa and participation in the Pan African Women’s Organisation Council meeting in Angola. The activities incurred Sh1,755,213; the budget was depleted, first charge 2026/2027.
• Participation in COP30-UN Climate Change Conference in Brazil, which incurred Sh2,339,400, approved in February 2026; budget depleted.
• Participation of NGEC in the Nyota Business Start-Up Capital Disbursement Programme, where the Commission incurred Sh230,000, and there was no budget.
• First Annual Nyeri Youth Summit-CBO, where the Commission incurred Sh78,400; the budget had been depleted.
• 2025 Annual National Multi-Stakeholders Conference – there was no budget, but the Commission incurred Sh474,390.
• Request for facilitation to attend the Public Service End of the Year Reflection Dinner in Kisumu – this was approved, but the budget had been depleted. The Commission incurred Sh101,400.
• Request for facilitation to attend the official flag-off of the 2025/2026 Kenya Mini Demographic and Health Survey – approved while the budget was depleted, and the Commission incurred Sh113,000.
• Participation in the funeral of Mzee Weston Kiricho Kanja, the father of the Inspector General of Police – approved while the budget was depleted, as the Commission incurred Sh61,000.
• County Children’s Prayer Day in Nyeri Town – approved but the budget was depleted, and the county incurred Sh84,000.
• Citizens Engagement Initiative in Nyeri Town Constituency – approved while the budget was depleted, and the Commission incurred Sh247,400.
• Peace Walk and Burial Ceremony in Nyeri County – approved while the budget was depleted, and the Commission incurred Sh123,200.
• Participation in World Water Day – approved while the budget was depleted; the Commission incurred Sh155,400.

Department of Regional Coordination

The activities in the Department of Regional Coordination were:

• NGEC-JICAGBX Elimination Project in Kajiado and Machakos counties, with a total of Sh932,400 approved when funds were depleted but implemented.
• NGEC-JICAGBX Elimination Project in Baringo County, incurring a total of Sh446,200; funds were depleted but implemented.

Department of Monitoring and Evaluation

In the Department of Monitoring and Evaluation, the activity was an invitation to a High-Level Sector Workshop, of which Sh226,800 was incurred. Funds were depleted but implemented.

• Development of a Status Report on Equity and Inclusion in Boards of Management and Top Management – there was no budget but was approved and implemented at a cost of Sh702,100.

Special Interest Group

• Commemoration of the Day of Persons with Disabilities – approved, depleted budget, and implemented at a cost of Sh100,000.
• International Women’s Day Celebrations – approved, depleted budget, implemented at a cost of Sh1,640,200.
• Commemoration of International Day of Zero Tolerance Against FGM – budget depleted but implemented at a cost of Sh425,000.

Observation

The report said the Commission failed to comply with the approved work plan and the Public Finance Management Act.

The report observed that the action was contrary to the Public Finance Management Act 2012, Section 68(1), which requires an accounting officer of a national government entity to be accountable to the National Assembly for ensuring that the resources of the respective entity for which he or she is accounting officer are used in a way that is lawful and authorised, and effective, efficient, economical and transparent.

It recommended that all activities were to be implemented within the approved workplan and budgets, and that any amendments were formally approved and supported by appropriate budget reallocation to prevent budget overruns and enhance accountability.

The series continues.