Tears of joy flowed freely as the pleas of a woman living with disability received instant attention from Busia Governor Dr Paul Otuoma during the Elalai Cultural and Sports Festival.
The Governor’s Protocol Officer, Alex Ojumbo alias Kujeje, drew the county boss’s attention to the presence of a woman with disability who had an urgent issue she wished to share with him.
Assisted into the arena by a caregiver using a transport wheelchair, Nancy Alinga—popularly known for entertaining visitors with traditional Agogo songs—initially surprised dignitaries when she declined to perform. Instead, she requested an opportunity to speak.
“Your Excellency, I reached Form Four and later trained in tailoring, which has helped me earn a living. However, I need a knitting machine, which is used to make sweaters, jumpers, and cardigans. This will help me supplement my income from the little I earn,” Alinga told the gathering.
Her emotional appeal moved the Governor, who rose from his seat accompanied by Roots Party of Kenya leader George Wajakoyah, Teso North MP Oku Kaunya, among other leaders. The leaders surrounded Alinga as she later engaged them in a brief celebratory jig.
Before Governor Otuoma addressed the crowd, 2027 presidential aspirant George Wajakoyah, who had been invited to speak, urged the Governor to consider offering Alinga employment within the county government.
He further proposed appointing her, on an interim basis, as a representative of persons living with disabilities within the Roots Party of Kenya’s structures.
In his address, Governor Otuoma reiterated that no one would be left behind, noting that African culture values and protects all members of society regardless of status.
“I have offered Nancy employment, and effective January 5, 2026, she will serve in the Customer Service Department. She will also continue with her tailoring work during her free time,” the Governor announced to loud applause.
Nominated Member of the County Assembly and Chairperson of Single Mothers, Beatrice Opwapo, appealed to the Governor to establish a vocational training centre for persons with disabilities in Busia County.
“Your Excellency, kindly also buy this lady a knitting machine for making sweaters. This will boost her income and enable her to train other people with disabilities,” Opwapo said.
