MAMA GRACE MONICA AKECH ONYANGO

Thewomanofmanyfirsts

Grace Monica Akech Onyango, also known as Nya'Bungu. Born in 1924, Nya'Bungu broke down cultural barriers and shattered the glass ceiling in Kenyan politics. She made history as the first woman to climb the ranks of the political system, becoming the first Kenyan female mayor in 1965. She also became the first female member of Parliament in post-independence Kenya, representing Kisumu Town Constituency in 1969.

But her achievements didn't stop there. In Parliament, she was the first woman to sit on the speaker's chair as a temporary deputy speaker, serving as Deputy Speaker from 1979 to 1984. Her legacy lives on as an inspiration to women all over the world. Nya'Bungu, we celebrate you and the trailblazing path you paved for generations to come. The Kisumu County Government and Hon. Dr. Amina Mohammed rightly honored Mama Grace Onyango by having the Kisumu social center named after her. A powerful first of many women who weren't afraid to counter and challenge stereotypes. Mama Grace Onyango passed on, on March 8th, 2023.

In a world that often fails to recognize the contributions of women, Nya'Bungu stood tall as a beacon of hope and inspiration. Her unwavering commitment to breaking down cultural barriers and shattering the glass ceiling in Kenyan politics was truly remarkable.

As we mourn her passing, let us also celebrate the life she lived and the legacy she leaves behind. May her trailblazing spirit continue to inspire generations to come, and may her memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved her.

Rest in peace, Mama Grace Onyango "Nya'Bungu". Your impact on the world will never be forgotten.