Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr has issued an apology to Homa Bay County following remarks he made concerning HIV/AIDS prevalence in the region.
While flagging off a group of youths attending the Kenya Youth Inter-County Sports Association (KYISA) Games in Homa Bay County, the governor had issued a cautionary message urging the young people to exercise caution while in the area, referencing the county’s HIV/AIDS prevalence.
“Homa Bay is a beautiful county with stunning islands and many hotels. However, with all this beauty, I would like to urge you to be safe. The county has no stigma around HIV/AIDS—people are used to the disease because of how common it is—so please be careful,” the governor had stated.
His remarks sparked mixed reactions, with some accusing him of unintentionally stigmatising the county and its residents.
In an official statement addressed to Homa Bay County Governor Gladys Wanga, Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr issued an apology, stating that it was not his intention to stigmatise the county or portray it as unsafe.
“I had no intention of victimising or besmirching the people of Homa Bay. I was merely cautioning the youth. I realise that my words on HIV/AIDS in Homa Bay may have led to a misunderstanding,” Mutula said.
“My apologies to my colleague, Gladys Wanga, and the people of Homa Bay for the misunderstanding,” the governor concluded.
Reacting to the developments, Governor Wanga accepted the apology and extended a warm welcome to the visiting youth.
“Apology accepted and welcome to the county of endless potential,” Wanga responded.
Homa Bay County has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in Kenya, currently standing at 10.6 per cent. It is second to Kisumu County, which has an 11.7 per cent prevalence, followed by Migori at 10.5 per cent.
Young people from across the country have converged in Homa Bay for the Kenya Youth Inter-County Sports Association (KYISA) national games, which bring together budding athletes.
The event will run from 13th to 19th April, with the youth participating in various sports including football and volleyball. The games aim to nurture young talent while fostering national unity.
