Homa Bay County names streets ahead of devolution conference

A street named after the late Kasipul MP Ong’ondo Were in Homa Bay Town, on August 5, 2025. [James Omoro, Standard]

The decision by the County Government to name streets in Homa Bay Town has elicited mixed reactions.

The county government has named streets to ease movement during the Devolution Conference slated for August 12 to 15.

In a notice issued in April, Governor Gladys Wanga announced public participation on the naming of roads in the town. The residents were required to propose suitable names.

Wanga assured the residents that their suggestions would be considered to ensure the names reflect local culture, history, and the values of Homa Bay County.

“The names of the streets are meant to celebrate prominent leaders, cultural landmarks or people who have made significant contributions to the growth of the county,” she said.

Streets have names including Governor Gladys Wanga Street, Orwa Ojode Street, and Ong’ondo Were Street.

Some of the residents have supported the initiative but others believe it is a misplaced priority.

Bank road in Homa Bay Town, on August 5, 2025. [James Omoro, Standard]

Homa Bay Bunge la Wenye Nchi head Walter Opiyo said naming streets will make it easy for people to move around.

“It is good to name streets in the town because this will help newcomers in the town to get directions efficiently,” Opiyo said.

Geoffrey Okoth of Homa Bay Giant Traders Association said naming the streets will enhance efficiency in the delivery of goods.

“The street names will guide people who are delivering goods to us,” Okoth said.

However, the Asego Public Litigation Forum Executive Director Michael Kojo, complained that most of the streets were named after politicians leaving out people who have made remarkable contribution in the county.“Politicians are usually people motivated by personal interests. I expected non-politicians who have made remarkable achievements in this county to be given the names,” Kojo said.