Mourning 'Mama Phoebe' Muga Asiyo

It is with profound sorrow that we share our sincere condolences on the passing of Hon. 'Mama Phoebe' Muga Asiyo. Truly, we have lost a remarkable figure in our society today, a woman whose leadership was profound and had a considerable impact on our country.

A woman of many firsts, she was the first elected as a Member of Parliament for Karachuonyo in 1980 and later served multiple terms, becoming one of Kenya's longest- serving female legislators. A trailblazer, she advocated for the two-third gender rule in the 1990s, which is now firmly engraved in the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, where she made immense contributions, as a member of the Constitution of Kenya Review commission (CKRC).

Hon. Asiyo was a revolutionary leader whose life was defined by her dedication to women's empowerment through promoting education, economic development, healthcare, and political participation. Her efforts to promote education, women's rights, and gender equality in Kenya were outstanding. She broke cultural barriers and set a powerful example of leadership. Her work with Mendeleo ya Wanawake Organization in the 1950s laid the foundation for her leadership and women's representation.

Beyond national politics, Mama Asiyo played a key role on the global stage as a delegate to major UN forums including the historic Beijing Conference on Women. championed women's rights, and mentored many leaders. Hon. Asiyo was a distinguished leader whose lifelong dedication to justice and women's empowerment earned her national and international honors. Her legacy as a pioneer in politics and gender equality will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude.