Akamba Elders Urge Nairobi-Based Community to Register as Voters Ahead of 2027 Polls

By Andrew Mbuva.

The Akamba Clans Governing Council of Elders has called on members of the Kamba community residing in Nairobi to register as voters within the city in preparation for the 2027 General Election.

Speaking during a consultative meeting held in Machakos on Thursday, Council Chairman Boniface Kilonzo reaffirmed the elders’ commitment to working with the government of the day, maintaining that the council’s operations are guided by its constitution and remain non-political.

Kilonzo stated that the gathering, which brought together elders from Nairobi and other regions, resolved to strengthen unity among members of the Kamba community as part of efforts to promote socio-economic and political empowerment.

“We, as leaders of the Akamba Clans Governing Council, work with the government of the day in accordance with our constitution. Our role is to unite the Kamba community and champion development initiatives that benefit our people,” said Kilonzo.

The council resolved to encourage Kambas living and working in Nairobi to register as voters in the city rather than travelling to their rural homes during elections. According to the elders, this move will enable residents to actively participate in electing leaders who directly influence service delivery in the areas where they live and work.

The elders also emphasized the need for civic education among Kamba residents in Nairobi, urging them to coexist harmoniously, support one another in accessing opportunities, and strengthen partnerships with other communities living in the city to foster peace and unity.

Kilonzo noted that the council represents 22 clans across the Ukambani region and acts as a unifying structure for members of the community, including those living outside their ancestral home. He explained that Kamba residents in Nairobi can identify with their respective clans through recognized leadership structures established by the council.

The meeting was attended by several leaders and government officials, including Trade Cabinet Secretary Anastasia Nyalita, Chief Officer for Boroughs Bernard Kiala, George Mutiso Chief Officer for Cooperatives and Peter Mutuku Mutua County Director and Head of Service, among others.

The elders further encouraged members of the Kamba community in urban centres such as Nairobi, Mombasa, and other towns to consider vying for elective leadership positions in their areas of residence, noting that increased representation would help advance community interests.

Kilonzo also clarified that the Akamba Clans Governing Council has existed for many years and was established long before Kalonzo Musyoka sought higher political office, emphasizing that the council operates independently as a cultural and advisory body.

The elders expressed optimism that increased voter registration and participation among Kambas living in Nairobi would strengthen their voice in governance while promoting cohesion both within the community and with other ethnic groups living in the capital.