The family of Water Trust Fund official, Hon. Paul Okwara Atwa, over the weekend held a solemn 10th memorial service in honor of his late wife, Lucy Nyang’a Okwara Atwa, who passed away a decade ago.
The emotional event brought together family, friends, church leaders, and prominent figures, including George Wajackoyah, renowned educationist John Mark Wandera, and was presided over by Joseph Wandera of the Mumias Anglican Church.
Speaking during the service, Prof. Wajackoyah praised the Atwa family for their continued support and strong relationship with him.
“I have enjoyed a very good relationship with the Atwa family, and that is why I made it a priority to attend this memorial service for Lucy, whom I personally knew,” he said.
He added that despite having other commitments in Mombasa, his bond with Hon. Paul Atwa could not allow him to miss the occasion.
Prof. Wajackoyah also took the opportunity to criticize the administration of President William Ruto, terming it ineffective and urging the Luhya community to reconsider their political choices in the 2027 general elections.
Speaker after speaker paid glowing tribute to the late Lucy, describing her as a warm, loving, hardworking, and supportive woman who left a lasting impact on those around her.
Educationist John Mark Wandera expressed gratitude to Hon.Paul Atwa for the invitation and recalled his long-standing relationship with the family.
“I have known the Atwa family since my childhood, and I am proud that Hon. Atwa entrusted me with educating his daughters. One of them is now in the United States doing remarkable work,” he noted.
Also speaking at the event,Mrs.Agnes Wandera, Principal of Ngairwe Secondary School in Koyonzo Ward, commended Hon. Atwa for his dedication to education and his support for the school through fundraising initiatives.
Lucy’s mother expressed deep gratitude to her son-in-law for organizing the memorial and for his unwavering support to her family over the years.
“Lucy was my beloved daughter, and her loss still pains us. I thank my son Paul for standing with us even ten years after her passing,” she said.
The Atwa’s Family spokesperson Chrispus Jela Atwa thanked all attendees for standing with the family and called for political tolerance, recalling past challenges the family had faced.
“We are here to celebrate the life of our loved one. Let us ensure that past political intolerance do not resurface,” he urged.
Lucy’s daughter, Fridah Andayi Atwa, gave an emotional tribute, describing her mother as the most influential figure in her life. She also shared a message from her sister based in the United States, expressing how much she is missed.
In his remarks, Hon. Paul Okwara Atwa thanked all who attended and supported the event.
“Today, we celebrate Lucy’s life. She was not only part of my family but of the entire Joshua Atwa family. I am deeply grateful to everyone who made this day a success,” he said.
He also appreciated Lucy’s family from Bukura for their strong presence and reaffirmed his continued bond with them.
In his sermon, Bishop Joseph Wandera urged the family to remain steadfast in faith and continue supporting church initiatives.
“The Atwa’s family is rooted in Christ, and their commitment to church programs is commendable,” he said.
He further noted that the family of the late Mzee Joshua Atwa remains one of the most prominent in Matungu, boasting over 40 graduates.
The memorial concluded with prayers for Lucy’s eternal rest and continued unity within the family.
