In a move that has sparked intense debate across Likuyani Sub-County, CEO Joel Wamalwa of the Lake Victoria North Water Works Development Agency (LVNWWDA) has launched a plumbing training programme targeting youth at St. Basil’s in Matunda.
The training comes at a time when social media and local WhatsApp groups are already naming Wamalwa as one of the frontrunners for the Likuyani Parliamentary seat in 2027 — alongside names like Hon. Innocent Mugabe, Hon. Deberious Shikuku Wafula and others.
Questions are already raging on the ground in Matunda, Kongoni and Nzoia:
Is CEO Joel Wamalwa using the youth to gain quick popularity as he eyes the parliamentary seat?
Is this just another “project launch” timed for political mileage,
or is it a sincere attempt at real youth empowerment that will actually equip young people with marketable skills?
One anonymous youth leader from Matunda told Likuyani Digest:
“We have seen many leaders launch projects when elections are near. Joel Wamalwa is a big man in water development, but now he is training youth in plumbing right here in Likuyani. Is it real empowerment or is he using the youth to gain popularity and test the waters for the MP seat? We are watching closely.”
Wamalwa, who was appointed CEO in late 2023, has been visible in major water projects across Kakamega and neighbouring counties. His supporters argue the training is part of his mandate to empower communities through skills. Critics, however, point out the timing — just months after the ODM exit from the broad-based government and as 2027 battle lines are being drawn.
Whether this is a genuine attempt at youth empowerment or a soft launch for a parliamentary bid, one thing is clear: the youth of Likuyani are not blind. They want skills, jobs and real development — not just photo opportunities.
The real voices of Matunda and the entire sub-county will decide if CEO Joel Wamalwa is delivering or just politicking.
This is a developing story. We remain anonymous, independent and 100% community driven. Share your views below — the real voices of Likuyani decide.
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