GOVERNOR BARASA LEADS HISTORIC INAUGURAL KAKAMEGA COUNTY PRAYER DAY.

H.E. Governor Dr. Fernandes Barasa, FCPA, OGW, today led the inaugural Kakamega County Prayer Day at Bukhungu Stadium, bringing together religious leaders, national and county government officials, development partners, the business community and residents for a day of prayer, thanksgiving and reflection under the theme, “Healing and Prosperity of Kakamega, the Western Region and Kenya” (2 Chronicles 7:14).

The Governor said the event marks the beginning of an annual county tradition of seeking God’s guidance, wisdom and blessings as Kakamega pursues peace, unity and sustainable development.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Barasa said healing and prosperity begin with humility, prayer, forgiveness and integrity. He called on leaders and wananchi to embrace servant leadership, peaceful coexistence and shared responsibility, noting that faith remains a cornerstone of moral leadership and national cohesion. He commended the unity demonstrated by Christian, Muslim, Hindu and other faith leaders, describing it as a powerful example of the role religion plays in promoting peace, justice and harmony.

The Governor highlighted the progress made under his administration’s Six-Point Development Agenda, including the construction of modern ECDE centres, recruitment of ECDE teachers on permanent and pensionable terms, expansion of healthcare through the ongoing construction of the 750-bed Kakamega County Teaching and Referral Hospital, increased household water connectivity, enhanced agricultural support programmes and continued investment in road infrastructure. He also acknowledged the strong partnership between the County and National Governments, saying the collaboration continues to accelerate transformative projects that are improving the livelihoods of the people of Kakamega.

With the country preparing for the 2027 General Election, Governor Barasa urged leaders and residents to uphold peace, reject violence and embrace dialogue, tolerance and mutual respect. He also challenged county staff to serve with professionalism, integrity and accountability, emphasizing prudent use of public resources, efficient service delivery and zero tolerance for corruption, while assuring them of his administration’s commitment to improving staff welfare.

The Governor thanked religious leaders for their continued partnership in nurturing moral values, strengthening social cohesion and inspiring hope across communities.

The event was attended by the First Lady of Kakamega County, Prof. Janet Kassilly Barasa; Members of the County Assembly led by Speaker Rt. Hon. James Namatsi; Members of Parliament; Members of the County Executive Committee, senior officers from the National and County Governments; religious leaders; development partners; representatives of the business community; invited guests and residents.