KISUMU, Kenya August 8- Today, Kenya bows its head and pays its deepest respects as we lay to rest a towering figure in our nation’s history, Mama Phoebe Asiyo, at her beloved home in Kanyaluo Wikondiek, Karachuonyo Constituency, Homa Bay County.
Mama Asiyo was more than a politician, more than a diplomat, more than a leader – she was a movement in herself, a blazing torch of integrity, courage, and compassion in public service.
In her, Kenya found a woman who walked boldly in halls of power, never for her own glory, but always in service to others, especially women, the marginalised, and the voiceless.
From her formative years in public service to becoming the first woman from Nyanza to be elected as a Member of Parliament Mama Asiyo shattered barriers and redefined what leadership could look like.
At a time when women were largely excluded from political spaces, she stood firm, eloquent, and fearless, earning the respect of friends and foes alike.
Her representation of Karachuonyo Constituency was not just about politics—it was about transformation, empowerment, and justice.
As the former chairperson of Maendeleo Ya Wanawake, Mama Asiyo championed gender equity long before it became a buzzword.
She believed that a nation could only rise when its women stood equally empowered beside its men.
Asiyo fought tirelessly for girls’ education, women’s access to economic resources, and fair representation in decision-making bodies.
Her advocacy reverberated not only in Kenya but across Africa and the global stage, where she served as a UN envoy passionately championing peace, development, and dignity for all.
Yesterday, Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, speaking as he received her body at Kisumu International Airport, encapsulated the nation’s grief and admiration:
“Her legacy as a trailblazer and a dedicated public servant will forever be remembered, as she was a true icon whose contributions to our nation were immeasurable.” the governor said
Indeed, Asiyo leaves behind a legacy etched not in stone, but in lives changed, minds awakened, and institutions transformed.
Her story will be told to generations as a blueprint of how one woman, grounded in conviction and love for her people, can change the course of history.
To her family, we say thank you for sharing her with us. To her peers, we honour the battles you fought together. To the people of Karachuonyo, you raised a national treasure.
And to Mama Asiyo – your race is run, your legacy eternal.
“Rest well, Mama.
Your life was a light.
Your spirit remains a flame in the hearts of a grateful nation,” said Owili.
But he was not alone.
Similar tributes were echoed by women leaders led by Homabay Governor Gladys Wanga, Kisumu woman rep Ruth Odinga, and Homabay cohort Joyce Osogo, among others, who envied Asiyos’ work and unmatched legacy. They vowed to follow in her footsteps.
President William Ruto is also expected to grace the high-octane final burial rites of Asiyo.
Yesterday, Governor Gladys Wanga announced that she had reached out to the President, who assured the burial would be a funeral given an enduring legacy as a respected female Amazon who served both in government and the private sector.
