The Somek community in Trans Nzoia County has thrown its weight behind Kenya’s Permanent Representative to UN-Habitat, Susan Nakhumicha Wafula, in her bid to become the next Trans Nzoia governor.
Somek community elder Samuel Francis Chemwor said the community was prepared to rally behind Nakhumicha, citing her government experience, international networks and knowledge of agriculture as key strengths in transforming the county’s economic potential.
“Nakhumicha is a woman who knows a lot about farming. I want someone who is informed like Nakhumicha to bring us investors and intellectuals,” Chemwor said.
Nakhumicha previously served as Cabinet Secretary for Health before taking up her current diplomatic role as Kenya’s Permanent Representative to UN-Habitat.
Chemwor said her experience in government and current international assignment could help position Trans Nzoia to attract investors, technical expertise and new opportunities for farmers and young people.
“We want someone who can bring investors because Trans Nzoia is an international agricultural hub,” the elder said.
He argued that Trans Nzoia’s position as one of Kenya’s key agricultural regions required leadership capable of turning its agricultural resources into investment, jobs and improved livelihoods.
Chemwor also defended the Somek community’s right to determine which leaders it supports, distancing the community from individuals he accused of claiming to speak on its behalf without its mandate.
He called for greater unity among Western Kenya leaders, saying political cooperation would strengthen the region’s bargaining power and influence in national development decisions.
The Somek are a clan of the larger Sabaot community, with members living in both Trans Nzoia and Bungoma counties.
Nakhumicha’s 2027 governorship bid is shaping up amid growing political realignments in Trans Nzoia, with various communities and political actors positioning themselves ahead of the gubernatorial contest.
