By Anderson Ojwang

Kendu Bay, the once entertainment capital of Nyanza, is waking up from decades of slumber and water insecurity despite being only three kilometers from the world’s second-largest freshwater lake, Lake Victoria.

Kendu Bay—famed for the once prestigious Kendu Bay Agricultural Show, which attracted musicians and bands from all over the region and the country—went into economic slumber with the collapse of cotton farming, lake transport, and the agricultural show.

However, the show has waned and disappeared over the years, and efforts to resuscitate it by the Homa Bay County Government have been a cropper. Today, the showground is a mere relic of its illustrious past, as is the old pier that used to be an important port of call for steamers and ships from as far as Uganda and Tanzania.

The town became a ghost town, with few investors preferring it as a destination, while other traders relocated to upcoming towns in the region.

Water insecurity became a common feature in the town, and various attempts to supply it with water had not yielded positive results.

But Kendu Bay started rising, with investors in real estate and hospitality preferring it as an investment destination, leading to the eventual opening of a Kenya Commercial Bank branch in the town.

Kendu Bay town is now bubbling and waking up with the completion of the Kokwanyo Water Treatment Works, implemented by the Ministry of Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation.

“Despite being a lakeside town, Kendu Bay has for years struggled with access to clean and reliable piped water, forcing most residents to depend directly on the lake for their daily needs,” said Internal Security and Administration Permanent Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo.

Omollo said the long-standing water challenge is now being addressed through the completion of the Kokwanyo Water Treatment Works, implemented by the government and completed in February 2025.

“The project is now fully operational and awaiting commissioning. This is a milestone and will spur economic growth in the region,” he said.

He said the water project draws its raw water from the Awach Kibuon River, which flows by gravity into the treatment plant, where it undergoes a comprehensive purification process, including flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, and storage in a tank.

“From there, treated water is pumped to a 2,000-cubic-metre reservoir tank at Ndiru, ensuring consistent supply and pressure for distribution,” he said.

Omollo said the intervention has significantly transformed water access for Kendu Bay town and its surrounding communities, providing clean and safe water to rural households, schools, and health institutions.

Residents said the water project will help address rampant water-related diseases and improve the health and economic well-being of the community.

They thanked President William Ruto for the project, terming it a milestone in the development of the town and the empowerment of the local community.

Currently, Kendu Bay has been witnessing an upsurge in investments in real estate and is steadily witnessing growth in other business sectors.

By James Okoth

The County Department of Public Health and Sanitation has confirmed the first-ever case of Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox) in Kisumu County, prompting a swift public health response and heightened surveillance across all health facilities.

In a press statement issued, the County Government said the case was confirmed by the National Public Health Reference Laboratory in Nairobi. The patient, a 42-year-old male, recently travelled from South Sudan and developed symptoms while still in Juba.

According to the department, the patient boarded a Simba Coach bus from Busia to Kisumu on Tuesday, November 19, 2025, departing at 7:00 a.m. and arriving at around 10:00 a.m. Health officials have classified all passengers who shared that journey as potential contacts and are urging them to present themselves at the nearest health facility should they develop any symptoms.

The patient was admitted to Kisumu County Referral Hospital upon arrival and immediately placed under isolation. He remains stable and is receiving appropriate supportive care under close medical supervision.

County Response Activated

The County Department of Public Health and Sanitation has activated a coordinated response plan designed to contain any potential spread of the virus.

Key interventions include:

1. Case Isolation – The confirmed patient remains isolated at Kisumu County Referral Hospital to prevent further transmission.
2. Contact Tracing – Four close contacts have been identified and placed under active observation.
3. Enhanced Surveillance – County-wide surveillance has been intensified, with a working case definition shared across all health facilities to guide early detection.
4. Community and Health Worker Sensitization – Healthcare workers are being trained on case management, infection prevention, and safe handling practices. Public sensitization campaigns are also underway to encourage early reporting and safe caregiving.

County Public Health officials have reassured residents that there is no cause for alarm, but vigilance remains critical in preventing a possible outbreak.

Public Advisory

Mpox is a viral infection that spreads through close physical contact, including contact with skin lesions, body fluids, contaminated materials, or prolonged face-to-face interaction.

The County Government has urged members of the public to take the following precautions:

●Passengers who travelled on the Simba Coach bus from Busia to Kisumu on November 19 (departed 7:00 a.m., arrived 10:00 a.m.) should contact the Emergency Operations Center via the toll-free line 0800 720 575 for guidance.

●Avoid close contact with anyone exhibiting a rash, skin lesions, or unexplained sores.

●Wash hands regularly with soap and clean water.

●Do not share personal items such as bedding, towels, clothing, or utensils.

●Seek immediate medical attention if you develop fever, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, headache, or a new rash.

●Report suspected cases to the nearest health facility or Public Health Office.

Symptoms to Watch For

Health officials advise that symptoms of Mpox often begin with fever, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches and fatigue, followed by a rash or lesions that may appear on the face, genitals, or other parts of the body and later progress into blisters.

The County Government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding public health and assured residents that all necessary containment measures are in place.> “Kisumu County KISUMU COUNTY CONFIRMS FIRST CASE OF MPOX, ISSUES PUBLIC HEALTH ALERT
By Staff Reporter, The Standard

KISUMU, Kenya, November 25, 2025 — The County Department of Public Health and Sanitation has confirmed the first-ever case of Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox) in Kisumu County, prompting a swift public health response and heightened surveillance across all health facilities.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the County Government said the case was confirmed by the National Public Health Reference Laboratory in Nairobi. The patient, a 42-year-old male, recently travelled from South Sudan and developed symptoms while still in Juba.

According to the department, the patient boarded a Simba Coach bus from Busia to Kisumu on Tuesday, November 19, 2025, departing at 7:00 a.m. and arriving at around 10:00 a.m. Health officials have classified all passengers who shared that journey as potential contacts and are urging them to present themselves at the nearest health facility should they develop any symptoms.

The patient was admitted to Kisumu County Referral Hospital upon arrival and immediately placed under isolation. He remains stable and is receiving appropriate supportive care under close medical supervision.

County Response Activated

The County Department of Public Health and Sanitation has activated a coordinated response plan designed to contain any potential spread of the virus.

Key interventions include:

1. Case Isolation – The confirmed patient remains isolated at Kisumu County Referral Hospital to prevent further transmission.
2. Contact Tracing – Four close contacts have been identified and placed under active observation.
3. Enhanced Surveillance – County-wide surveillance has been intensified, with a working case definition shared across all health facilities to guide early detection.
4. Community and Health Worker Sensitization – Healthcare workers are being trained on case management, infection prevention, and safe handling practices. Public sensitization campaigns are also underway to encourage early reporting and safe caregiving.

County Public Health officials have reassured residents that there is no cause for alarm, but vigilance remains critical in preventing a possible outbreak.

Public Advisory

Mpox is a viral infection that spreads through close physical contact, including contact with skin lesions, body fluids, contaminated materials, or prolonged face-to-face interaction.

The County Government has urged members of the public to take the following precautions:

Passengers who travelled on the Simba Coach bus from Busia to Kisumu on November 19 (departed 7:00 a.m., arrived 10:00 a.m.) should contact the Emergency Operations Center via the toll-free line 0800 720 575 for guidance.

Avoid close contact with anyone exhibiting a rash, skin lesions, or unexplained sores.

Wash hands regularly with soap and clean water.

Do not share personal items such as bedding, towels, clothing, or utensils.

Seek immediate medical attention if you develop fever, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, headache, or a new rash.

Report suspected cases to the nearest health facility or Public Health Office.

Symptoms to Watch For

Health officials advise that symptoms of Mpox often begin with fever, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, and fatigue, followed by a rash or lesions that may appear on the face, genitals, or other parts of the body and later progress into blisters.

The County Government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding public health and assured residents that all necessary containment measures are in place.

“Kisumu County Government remains steadfast in its commitment to protect the health and safety of all residents. We urge calm, cooperation and vigilance as we continue monitoring the situation closely,” the statement read.

Regular updates will be provided as investigations and contact tracing efforts continue.

For urgent concerns or additional information, residents are encouraged to call the Emergency Operations Center toll-free line: 0800 720 575.

By James Okoth

The Odinga family has been thrown into mourning following the death of Beryl Achieng’ Odinga, the younger sister to ODM leader Raila Odinga and Kisumu Woman Representative Hon. Ruth Odinga, who confirmed the sad news on Tuesday.

In a heartfelt message to the public, Ruth said the family was deeply saddened by the sudden passing of her sister, describing her as a pillar of love, intellect and humility.

“It is with a heavy heart, but accepting the will of God, that we announce the sudden passing of Beryl Achieng’ Odinga, daughter to the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Mama Mary Ajuma Oginga,” read part of the family statement. “While we are deeply saddened by her demise and the immense void left in our lives, we take solace in the belief that she is safe in the Lord’s arms,” said part of the statement.

A Quiet but Distinguished Life

Though she kept a low public profile, Beryl Achieng’ Odinga led a life marked by distinction in both professional and public service circles. A teacher by training and later a lawyer, she combined intellect with commitment to administrative excellence.

In 2020, she was appointed Chairperson of the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company (NWSC), where she earned respect for her calm leadership and insistence on accountability in public utilities management.

Earlier in her career, Beryl served abroad, including a notable stint in Zimbabwe, where she reportedly made history as the first black Town Clerk of Mutare and later served as Company Secretary for the Housing Corporation of Zimbabwe in a rare achievement for a Kenyan woman of her generation.

The Family and Early Years

Born to Kenya’s first Vice President Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Mama Mary Ajuma, Beryl was the youngest in the Odinga family. Her upbringing in a household deeply engaged in Kenya’s liberation and governance struggles shaped her sense of discipline and service.

She completed her A-Level studies in 1972 and pursued further education both locally and abroad. Unlike some of her siblings who studied overseas, she once revealed that she attended school in Kenya, sharing a classroom with political figures such as Kalonzo Musyoka and Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o.

A Private Life, a Strong Legacy

Beryl married Otieno Ambala in the mid-1970s and together they had children — Ami Auma, Chizi, and Taurai. Her husband passed away in 1985, after which she continued to focus on her career and family.

Those close to her describe her as reserved but remarkably principled and a woman who valued education, integrity and service over publicity.

Mourning and Tributes

The news of her passing was met with an outpouring of grief from political leaders and the public alike. ODM officials and Kisumu County leaders sent condolences to the family, praising her contribution to public administration and women’s leadership.

Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, who schooled with Beryl, described her as “a brilliant mind and a gracious soul whose humility never diminished her influence.”

Plans for her burial are underway, with the family expected to release a detailed programme later this week.

A Life of Service Remembered

Beryl Achieng’ Odinga may not have sought the limelight that defined many of her siblings, but her journey tells a story of quiet excellence and unwavering commitment to service.

Her passing marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the Odinga family, one defined not only by politics, but by intellect, discipline and public duty.

As Ruth Odinga said in her tribute, “We are thankful for the invaluable gift of the time we shared with her and for the profound impact she had on all who knew her.”

By James Okoth

Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), a chronic hereditary blood disorder that affects oxygen flow in the body, remains one of Kenya’s most under-recognized yet devastating health challenges. In Kisumu County, long considered the epicentre of the disease, a quiet transformation is taking place.

At the heart of it all stands the Kisumu Sickle Cell Disease Centre, now fully operational at Victoria Annex in Milimani, a state-of-the-art facility providing specialized care, early screening and advanced therapy for patients once left to suffer in silence.

National Outlook: A Heavy Burden

Kenya records an estimated 14,000 births with Sickle Cell Disease each year, yet without proper care, nearly nine out of ten affected children may not live beyond their fifth birthday. Only a handful of hospitals nationwide have the diagnostic machines and staff needed to identify the disease early.

Experts estimate the economic toll of SCD in Kenya at KSh 1.6 billion annually, mostly spent on treatment, hospitalization and lost productivity. Advocacy groups have urged both national and county governments to declare the disease a public health emergency, particularly in Western Kenya where prevalence rates are highest.

Kisumu County: The Epicentre of the Crisis

Kisumu’s statistics paint a grim picture. Roughly 1.5–4 percent of newborns in the county are born with SCD, while nearly one in five residents carries the trait. Each year, about 500 children under five die from the disease’s complications.

At Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH), the numbers are equally sobering. Surviving patients experience an average of five painful crises a year, each crisis lasting between five and ten days and requiring hospitalization.

A Centre of Hope in Milimani

Officially opened in 7th May 2025, the Victoria Annex Sickle Cell Disease Centre has become a symbol of hope and progress. Established by the County Government of Kisumu in partnership with Victoria Hospital and global health partners, the facility provides:

●Early newborn screening for all infants born in the county.

●Comprehensive care for patients, including pain management, counseling and continuous monitoring.

●Advanced blood therapies, including the groundbreaking red blood cell exchange (apheresis) treatment.

●Drug formulation and supply, made possible through a partnership with Yunigen Pharma (USA) to locally produce hydroxyurea, the standard medication that reduces SCD crises.

To date, more than 20,000 children have been screened under Kisumu’s county-wide initiative.

Human Faces Behind the Fight

Dr. Gregory Ganda, Kisumu County Executive Committee Member for Health, has been at the forefront of the SCD response. He emphasizes prevention through awareness and early testing.

“Since this is a hereditary disease, it is important to screen early so that as a child grows, the sickle cell trait is known,” he said. “At the same time, people must be informed that if they marry someone with the same trait, it will result in full-blown sickle cell disease.”

Dr. Ganda has also urges both levels of government to allocate specific budget lines for SCD management.

For many patients, however, the impact of the new centre is deeply personal. Mitchelle Omullo, a Kisumu-based filmmaker and sickle cell warrior, was the first patient to undergo red blood cell exchange therapy at the Milimani facility.

“I am very excited because I feel like the apheresis machine is going to really reduce the number of crises that we are always having,” she said after her procedure.

Omullo has since become a leading advocate for awareness and inclusion, using her platform to dispel myths surrounding the disease.

“We are just like any other normal person,” she said. “It’s just that we have a blood disorder but other than that, we are normal.”

Looking Ahead

Kisumu’s model is now attracting attention from other high-burden counties and the national government. Health experts describe the Victoria Annex facility as a template for county-level response, combining community awareness, accessible care and advanced treatment under one roof.

Still, challenges remain: inadequate insurance coverage, limited supply of hydroxyurea in rural clinics and the need for more trained hematologists.

Even so, the message from Kisumu is clear; Sickle Cell Disease is no longer being ignored. Through leadership, partnerships and local innovation, a county once defined by loss is now shaping Kenya’s future in hematology care.