The head of the National AIDS and STIs Control Programme (NASCOP), Dr Andrew Mulwa Speaking during grassroots leaders’ forums in Mtito Andei and Machinery townships on September 12, 2026. Photo Courtesy. 
By Andrew Mbuva
The head of the National AIDS and STIs Control Programme (NASCOP), Dr Andrew Mulwa, has blamed Makueni Senator Daniel Maanzo for failing to protect mango farmers from losses incurred during the 2025/2026 harvesting season.
Dr Mulwa said farmers endured significant financial losses after the Makueni County Government failed to implement its plan to purchase mangoes from local farmers.
Speaking during grassroots leaders’ forums in Mtito Andei and Machinery townships, Dr Mulwa, who is seeking to unseat Senator Maanzo in the 2027 General Election, argued that the impact of the losses could have been reduced if the senator had pushed for the establishment of a dedicated fund to cushion mango farmers against market-related challenges.
He faulted the senator for what he described as inadequate advocacy on behalf of farmers, insisting that stronger interventions were needed to protect the livelihoods of mango-growing communities in the county.
At the same time, Dr Mulwa pledged to champion the revival of Makueni’s affordable health insurance scheme if elected senator, saying access to affordable healthcare would be among his key priorities.
The grassroots leaders who attended the forums vowed to rally behind Dr Mulwa’s senatorial bid, expressing support for his plans to address farmers’ challenges and improve access to healthcare across the county.
