Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has graciously accepted an apology from Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. following comments he made about the HIV/AIDS situation in Homa Bay County.
While addressing guests and participants at the Kenya Youth Inter-County Sports Association (KYISA) games currently happening in Homa Bay, Wanga confirmed the matter had been resolved.
“Apology accepted and welcome to the county of endless potential,” she said, closing the chapter on the controversy.
Governor Mutula sparked the backlash while flagging off his county’s youth team to the games. He urged them to be cautious, 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,” Mutula remarked.
The statement drew mixed reactions, including concern from Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang, who cautioned leaders against reinforcing harmful stereotypes.
Mutula later issued a public apology, clarifying that his intent was to advise the youth, not stigmatize the county.
“My apologies to Hon. Gladys Wanga and the people of Homa Bay. I meant well,” he said.
The KYISA games, targeting youth aged 18 to 23, provide opportunities for those who’ve missed out on mainstream sports scouting. Eligible participants should not be part of elite or institutional teams like KUSA, national divisions, or premier leagues.
The ongoing event in Homa Bay is the 10th edition, following last year’s games held in Kilifi County, which featured football (boys and girls), boys’ volleyball, and girls’ basketball.
