By Samson Wire
In a fiercely contested election, Siaya County’s Deputy Director of Sports, Mr. John Ang’awa, has been elected as the new National Chairman of the Kenya Inter-Counties Sports and Cultural Association (KICOSCA), securing a decisive win with 56 votes against 41 for his rival from Busia County.
The high-stakes polls, held at Nairobi’s Charter Hall and supervised by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), pitted Ang’awa – backed by Siaya Governor James Orengo’s administration – against Busia’s Otuoma in a race that captivated the nation’s sports community.
Ang’awa’s victory caps a remarkable campaign driven by Governor Orengo’s unwavering support and the diplomatic efforts of Siaya’s Director of Sports and Arts, Dr. Sanmac Okoth. The win positions Siaya at the forefront of inter-county sports and cultural development in Kenya.
“This is a proud moment for Siaya County,” Governor Orengo stated following the results. “Mr. Ang’awa’s leadership will elevate KICOSCA and strengthen unity across counties through sports and culture.”
The triumph builds on Siaya’s stellar track record, having successfully hosted the KICOSCA Games last year under Governor Orengo’s leadership. Spearheaded by CEC Anjeline Oduor, Chief Officer Judith Oyugi, Director Sanmac Okoth, Deputy Ang’awa, and Kennedy Oreyo, the week-long event brought national attention to the county.
The games not only fostered inter-county bonds but also delivered a major economic boost. Hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, shops, and the transport sector thrived as thousands of visitors, participants, and officials flooded Siaya, injecting vitality into local businesses.
In a colourful ceremony during the hosting, Governor Orengo was installed as KICOSCA’s patron and received the games torch. The event drew regional leaders, including Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa and West Pokot Governor Dr. Simon Kachapin – who chairs the Council of Governors Sports Committee.
With Ang’awa now at the helm, expectations are high for continued growth in Kenya’s inter-county sports scene. Siaya’s double triumph – hosting the games and securing the chairmanship – underscores the county’s rising influence in national sports governance.
