For years, 70-year-old Mzee Joshua Kusinyo Owino endured life in a dilapidated grass-thatched house that barely offered protection from the scorching sun or heavy rains. Every passing season brought uncertainty and hardship for the disabled elder and his family in Nyapeta Village, Mumias West Constituency.
But on Tuesday, his life took a dramatic turn after renowned lawyer and Mumias West parliamentary aspirant Wakili Peter Mung’oma handed over a newly constructed 40-iron-sheet house, restoring dignity and hope to a family that had almost given up.
The emotional event drew hundreds of residents who gathered to witness what many described as an act of compassion rather than politics. Tears of joy flowed freely as the elderly beneficiary stepped into his new home for the first time.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Wakili Mung’oma said his humble upbringing had shaped his commitment to helping vulnerable families.
“I grew up in extreme poverty. I went to school barefoot and slept on worn-out rags during my childhood. I understand the pain of lacking the basic necessities of life, and that is why I could not ignore Mzee Kusinyo’s situation,” he said.
The youthful politician emphasized that leadership should be measured by service to the people rather than promises.
“I do not give because I have alot. I give because I know what it feels like to go without. Every family deserves to live in dignity. Besides building this house, I will ensure Mzee Kusinyo has decent bedding and continue supporting his children in school. That is the kind of leadership our people deserve,” he added to applause from residents.
Mung’oma, who is among the leading contenders seeking to unseat Mumias West MP Hon. Johnson Manya Naicca in the 2027 General Election, used the occasion to call for accountable and people-centered leadership.
He criticized what he termed as selective issuance of bursaries in the constituency, arguing that many deserving learners continue to miss educational opportunities despite the availability of public resources.
“We must prioritize the welfare of every child regardless of their background. Education is a right, not a privilege reserved for a few,” he said.
An overwhelmed Mzee Joshua Kusinyo Owino struggled to hold back tears as he thanked his benefactor.
“I do not have enough words to express my gratitude. I never imagined I would one day own such a beautiful house. May God richly bless Wakili Peter Mung’oma for remembering my family. People have seen what he has done for me, and I will always remain grateful,” he said.
Also addressing the gathering, Wakili Mung’oma’s aide, Mr. Michael Kweyu, praised the parliamentary hopeful for consistently standing with vulnerable members of the community.
“Wakili has built houses for the needy families, supported countless vulnerable people, and has remained accessible to the people of Mumias West. His actions speak louder than campaign promises. Our constituency deserves fresh leadership that puts the people first,” said Kweyu.
He urged residents to support Mung’oma’s parliamentary bid, saying the constituency needs a new development agenda driven by compassion, accountability, and inclusivity.
Widely regarded as one of the most formidable challengers in the Mumias West parliamentary race, Wakili Peter Mung’oma has increasingly built his public profile through charitable initiatives targeting disadvantaged families, educational support, and community empowerment programs.
For Mzee Joshua Kusinyo Owino and his family, however, the new house is more than just a structure of iron sheets and timber—it is a symbol of restored dignity, renewed hope, and the promise of a better tomorrow.
