Vihiga Youth WASH Parliament

I have consistently spoken about economic justice, prioritization of Mwananchi, transparency, and integrity in leadership. That stand remains firm and unmoved. Development must first serve the ordinary citizen. Public resources must be used prudently. Leadership must remain accountable. But today, I want to speak about strategy. For a long time, many young people, myself included , have raised valid concerns about governance gaps, delayed services, stalled projects, and misplaced priorities. Calling out injustice is necessary, demanding transparency is necessary, holding leaders accountable is necessary. However, accountability alone is not enough; We must ask ourselves:  How do we influence systems if we are permanently outside them? How do we shape policy if we are not present where policy is shaped? Ranting without representation limits our power. Protest without positioning reduces our potential.

In 2026, the youth of Vihiga County are stepping forward with renewed energy and purpose to champion one of the most urgent needs of our communities: Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH). The Vihiga Youth WASH Parliament is a youth-led platform dedicated to advocating for safe water access, improved sanitation systems, and stronger hygiene awareness across the county. Our work is rooted in the belief that young people are not just beneficiaries of development — we are key partners in shaping healthier, more resilient communities. Why WASH Matters in Vihiga Across many wards in Vihiga County, communities continue to face challenges such as unreliable water supply, inadequate sanitation infrastructure, and preventable waterborne diseases. These issues affect schools, households, healthcare centers, and livelihoods. WASH is not simply about facilities — it is about dignity, public health, equality, and sustainable development. Our Vision for 2026 In the year ahead, the Vihiga Youth WASH...