NAIROBI, Kenya Apr 12-Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has graciously accepted an apology from Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. following his comments about HIV/AIDS in Homa Bay County.
The apology followed remarks made by Governor Mutula as he flagged off Makueni’s youth team headed to the Kenya Youth Inter-County Sports Association (KYISA) games, currently taking place in Homa Bay.
In his address, Governor Mutula had urged the young participants to remain cautious during their visit, citing Homa Bay’s high HIV/AIDS prevalence and the county’s openness in addressing the issue.
“Homa Bay is a great county… They are more open about living with HIV/AIDS, and there’s less stigma even to the point where someone can openly ask for HIV medication to be delivered to them,” he noted.
The comments drew varied reactions, including concern from Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang, who took issue with the tone and possible implications of the statement.
In response, Governor Wanga acknowledged the apology during her welcoming address to visiting teams and guests attending the KYISA games.
“Apology accepted and welcome to the county of endless potential,” she said.
Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo an official apology to Governor Wanga and the residents of Homa Bay County, following remarks he made regarding the county’s HIV/AIDS situation.
In a formal statement, Governor Mutula clarified that his comments were not intended to stigmatize the county or portray it as unsafe.
“I had no intention of victimising or besmirching the people of Homa Bay. I was merely cautioning the youth. I realise that my words on HIV/AIDS in Homa Bay may have led to a misunderstanding. My apologies to my colleague, Gladys Wanga, and the people of Homa Bay for the misunderstanding,” the governor said.
Governor Mutula’s remarks came as he flagged off a youth delegation from Makueni to participate in the ongoing Kenya Youth Inter-County Sports Association (KYISA) games, currently being hosted in Homa Bay.
In the latest data,sixty percent of those infected reside in ten counties. Kisumu leads with 135,550 cases, followed by Homa Bay (109,786), Migori (106,003), Siaya (93,368), and Nairobi (82,820).
Other counties with high numbers include Nakuru (65,149), Mombasa (53,718), Kakamega (51,067), Kisii (48,202), Machakos (46,750), and Uasin Gishu (41,564).
The annual event, running from April 13 to 19, has brought together young athletes from across the country to compete in various disciplines including football and volleyball.
The KYISA games aim to promote national cohesion and nurture sporting talent among the youth, offering a platform for inter-county engagement and development.