Siaya County’s Sports, Culture and Arts CECM, Angeline Atieno Oduor, is increasingly drawing criticism from residents who accuse her of presiding over one of the least impactful departments in Governor James Orengo’s administration. Despite overseeing a docket that directly shapes youth development, talent growth, and cultural expression, Oduor has maintained what many describe as a low-energy, low-visibility leadership style—raising questions about her effectiveness at a time when the county’s young people are hungry for support and opportunities.
Observers argue that Oduor has failed to demonstrate the strategic drive needed to nurture emerging talent in athletics, field events, football, and the creative arts. Even with private-sector partnerships—most notably Betika’s collaboration with the county to scout and elevate local sports talent—her office has struggled to provide direction, momentum, or innovation.
While the budget allocation for the department is admittedly modest, critics insist that leadership is not measured by resources alone. Other youth-focused departments in the county have managed to stretch their limited funds through creativity, collaboration, and visible community engagement. Oduor, they say, has not.
Her performance is coming under sharper scrutiny as Siaya prepares to host a major national event: the 12th Edition of the Kenya Inter-County Sports and Cultural Associations (KICOSCA) Games, set to kick off on Monday, November 24, 2025, at the historic Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium.
In contrast to the CECM’s silence, other county officials are taking charge of the moment. Sports and Tourism Chief Officer Judy Oyugi and Director of Culture Kennedy Orwenjo have already hit the ground running—welcoming visiting delegations from across Kenya and encouraging participants to explore Siaya’s cultural and ecological gems.
Guests have been urged to experience:
Kango KaJaramogi Mausoleum,
Got Ramogi, the cradle of Luo heritage,
Lake Kanyaboli, a paradise for bird watchers, and
Utonga Nature Conservancy, home to the rare and majestic Sitatunga antelope.
The county leadership is rallying Siaya’s own KICOSCA teams to bring home multiple trophies and fly the county flag high during the week-long event.
As excitement builds, the spotlight remains firmly on Angeline Oduor. With thousands of athletes, artists, and cultural ambassadors descending on Siaya, the question lingers: Will the CECM rise to the moment—or continue to fade in the background as others carry the weight of her docket?
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