Luhya Community in Kilifi Forms Unity Bloc to Boost Political and Economic Influence

By Ben Okweingoti 

Members of the Luhya community living in Kilifi County have unveiled a new umbrella body aimed at strengthening their political voice and advancing socio-economic interests within the coastal region.

The initiative, dubbed Obuhambani Bwa Abaluhya Umbrella Unity Group, seeks to consolidate the community’s influence and ensure its inclusion in key decision-making processes in the county government.

Speaking during the launch at Barani Secondary School grounds in Malindi, the group’s chairman, Wilson Ahonga, said the move is intended to position the Luhya community to actively participate in governance and benefit from development opportunities.

Ahonga noted that despite their significant numbers and contribution to the county’s growth, members of the community have historically been sidelined in leadership and public service appointments.

“Since the inception of devolution, our community has not had adequate representation in senior county positions. However, in 2022, we supported Governor Gideon Mung’aro, who pledged to include us in his administration. Today, some of our members are serving in the executive, and this unity will help us secure even greater opportunities,” he said.

His sentiments were echoed by Wafula Masafu, who expressed optimism that the formation of the unity group would amplify the community’s voice in both political and economic spheres. He highlighted the nomination of a Luhya member to the Kilifi County Assembly as a milestone, noting it marked the first such achievement for the community in the region.

Millicent Khayanga urged the leadership of the newly formed group to remain steadfast in championing the welfare of its members. She also emphasized the importance of fostering collaboration with indigenous communities to promote inclusivity and cohesion.

Malindi MP Amina Mnyazi, who attended the event, lauded the Luhya community for its support during the 2022 General Election, crediting their votes for her victory and that of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) candidates.

“I appreciate the trust you placed in me during the last election. In return, I have ensured inclusivity in my office by incorporating members from diverse communities, including the Luhya. I also urge all Kenyans to verify their voter registration details with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission as part of efforts to clean and update the register,” she said.

The formation of the unity group signals a growing trend of diaspora communities organizing to assert their influence in county politics and development agendas.