Bungoma today marked a historic milestone as leaders, clergy and residents gathered to celebrate 100 years since it’s founding.
Speaking during the Bungoma Centenary Celebrations, Governor Lusaka described the anniversary as more than a celebration, calling it “a moment of reflection, renewal and recommitment.”
“Today, we stand at the intersection of time and testimony,” Lusaka said. “One hundred years of Bungoma is not just a number; it is a story of resilience, faith and shared responsibility.”
The Governor traced Bungoma’s journey from humble beginnings marked by subsistence farming, communal living and strong moral values, noting that faith institutions played a central role in shaping the county’s social fabric.
“When there were no hospitals, the church prayed and cared. When there were no schools, the church taught. When there was despair, the church offered hope,” he said, crediting the clergy for laying the moral foundation upon which the county was built.
Highlighting present-day progress, Lusaka noted that Bungoma has evolved into a key agricultural hub, characterised by expanding towns, improved infrastructure, schools, and health facilities. However, he cautioned that significant challenges remain, including youth unemployment, poverty and inequality.
“Even as we celebrate progress, we must acknowledge our unfinished work,” the Governor said. “Development must walk hand in hand with values. Progress without God is fragile.”
He singled out the clergy for praise, commending them for uniting the county across denominations to organise the centenary celebrations and for continuing to serve as the moral conscience of society.
“The church has once again risen above differences to remind us that unity is strength and that Bungoma’s soul still matters,” Lusaka said.
Looking ahead, the Governor challenged residents and leaders to envision a Bungoma that offers opportunity to every child, empowers youth as job creators, and upholds leadership anchored in service rather than entitlement.
“We want a Bungoma that grows economically but remains morally grounded,” he said. “A county where prosperity is shared and no one is left behind.”
Lusaka concluded by emphasizing that Bungoma’s centenary should mark a turning point rather than an endpoint.
“At 100 years, Bungoma is not retiring; Bungoma is repositioning,” he said. “Let this centenary be remembered for clarity of purpose knowing where we came from, understanding where we stand, and boldly choosing where we want to go.”
Leaders who attended accross political divide urged unity, value-based leadership and inclusive development as the foundation for the next century.
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