Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr apologizes for HIV/AIDS comment on Homa Bay

Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr has apologized to the people of Homa Bay County over comments he made regarding the region’s HIV/AIDS prevalence.

The apology follows remarks he gave while sending off a team of youth traveling to Homa Bay for the Kenya Youth Inter-County Sports Association (KYISA) Games.

During the event, the governor advised the young participants to be vigilant during their stay, citing concerns about HIV/AIDS rates in the host county.

His statement drew criticism, prompting the governor to issue a formal apology to the residents of Homa Bay.

"Homa Bay is a beautiful county with stunning islands and many hotels. However, with all this beauty, I would like to urge you to be safe. The county has no stigma around HIV/AIDS—people are used to the disease because of how common it is—so please be careful," the governor had stated.

In a formal statement directed to Homa Bay County Governor Gladys Wanga, Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr extended an apology, clarifying that he did not intend to stigmatize the county or depict it as insecure.

"I had no intention of victimising or besmirching the people of Homa Bay. I was merely cautioning the youth. I realise that my words on HIV/AIDS in Homa Bay may have led to a misunderstanding," Mutula said.

"My apologies to my colleague, Gladys Wanga, and the people of Homa Bay for the misunderstanding," the governor concluded.

In response to the developments, Governor Wanga graciously accepted the apology and warmly welcomed the visiting youth.

"Apology accepted, and welcome to the county of endless potential," Wanga responded.

Homa Bay County has one of the highest rates of HIV prevalence in Kenya, currently recorded at 10.6%.

This places it second after Kisumu County, where the prevalence stands at 11.7%, followed closely by Migori with 10.5%.

A diverse group of young individuals from across the nation has gathered in Homa Bay for the Kenya Youth Inter-County Sports Association (KYISA) national games, an event that brings together promising athletes from various regions.

The event is scheduled to take place from April 13th to 19th, featuring youth participation in various sports such as football and volleyball.