By Isaac Esitika.
Governor Nyong’o, Mama Dorothy Nyong’o and Mama Phoebe Asiyo family members / photos by Calvin Randy and Adams Claine
Kisumu County Governor Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o today led the county in celebrating the life of a matriarch Phoebe Asiyo who peacefully passed away on 17th July, 2025, North Carolina in the United States of America.
In a ceremonious event held at Mama Grace Social hall, was in honor of the late political veteran Mama Phoebe Asiyo, saw kisumu citizens from all entities, ranking from the county government delegates,Phoebe Asiyo family led by her son Ceasar Asiyo, women gender sector forums, youths, persons with disabilities all coming together.
In his powerful address to the people, Governor Nyong’o praised Mama Asiyo for championing equality and inclusivity for women and empowerment through the Maendeleo ya wanawake Organisation program in Africa as the co-founder.
“She pushed the establishment from a white-centered white organization,to a gender-based leading and empowering organization” said Governor Nyong’o
Governor Nyong’o did not cease to applaud Mama Asiyo’s political contributions and her constitutional reforms for women representation in the National Assembly.
“She is the one woman in the caucus of women in the negotiation of the new constitution. A constitution that created possibilities for women to stand as MPs and represent the country.” said the governor.
The county first lady Mama Dorothy Nyong’o also paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Mama Phoebe Asiyo. She highlighted Mama Asiyo’s contributions, including founding the Caucus for Women’s Leadership, which enabled women to attend the UN Commission on the Status of Women.
Mrs. Nyong’o also urged women to seek regular health screenings, including breast and cervical cancer checks, and encouraged families to take advantage of free HPV vaccination for girls aged 10-14 as well as calling out men to undertake prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests.
“I want to encourage men over 40 to go and have a regular PSA test, you will be able to detect prostate cancer early, and this will save your life.” She said,
The First Lady concluded by praying for Mama Asiyo’s eternal rest and calling for a “Wall of Fame” to be created at the Mama Grace Onyang’o Social and Cultural Centre to honor her legacy and that of other notable women and men.
Kisumu County Women Representative Hon Ruth Odinga, CECM Public Service, Salmon Orimba, CECM Gender, Beatrice Odongo, CECM Water and Climate Change Judith Oluoch, CECM Trade and Tourism, Faridah Salim and and distinguished women leaders from across the County. all paid their tributes in memory of Mama Phoebe Asiyo.
Mama Phoebe Asiyo will not only remain in the hearts of many but a living spirit in the journey of resilience and liberation. The fruits of her dedication and sacrifice will be a living testimony today and in the future to come.
