Residents of Central Seme Ward in Kisumu’s Seme constituency have reason to celebrate, as a new community support van has been unveiled to assist with local transport needs.
The initiative was led by Isaac Owino Okeno, who provided the van to ease transportation for community events like funerals, weddings, sports activities, and school functions. The three-week-old van was officially dedicated at a service held at Lieya Primary School on Sunday.
Speaking ahead of the unveiling, Okeno noted that the van would alleviate some of the transport challenges faced by Seme residents, especially given the poor road conditions in the area.
“Transport is a big issue in Seme. Some roads are barely passable, and this van will help ease that burden,” he explained.
The van will operate under Okeno’s foundation, with an office based in Kombewa to handle bookings and scheduling. Residents who need to use the van can simply visit the office, and a driver will be provided. They will only be responsible for fueling the vehicle.
Okeno, who finished as the runner-up for the Central Seme Ward seat in 2022, is anticipated to run again in 2027. He also urged the Kisumu County government to consider waiving license fees for youth- and women-led startups for at least two years.
“A waiver could help these small businesses form groups, access loans, and grants. Many are unregistered because they lack the funds,” he stated, adding that supporting these businesses would empower the community and contribute to the tax base.
