Governor Fernandes Barasa Honoured with Excellence in Infrastructure Development Award in Paris

Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has been honoured with the Excellence in Infrastructure Development Award at the maiden edition of the People’s Choice Governors’ Excellence Awards, held in Paris, France.

The event brought together leaders, policymakers, and citizens to celebrate transformative governance and people-centered leadership across Africa.

In his welcoming remarks, Dr Idahosa Osamhanze, Vice President of the Selection Committee, described the awards as a unique platform to recognise governors who have demonstrated vision, transparency, and unwavering dedication to their people.

“Tonight, we gather not merely to present awards, but to affirm a truth we often overlook that leadership at its finest is worthy of public recognition, and that the voice of the people remains a powerful compass in assessing governance.

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The People’s Choice Governors’ Excellence Award was conceived as a platform to honour governors who have demonstrated exceptional vision, transformative policies, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of their people,” he said.

Osamhanze further emphasized that the award represents integrity, fairness, and performance, noting that it aims to inspire other leaders across Africa.

“We are delighted to have gathered here in the beautiful city of Paris, a fitting venue for a celebration that transcends borders and speaks to the universal ideals of good governance, accountability, and people-centred leadership,” he added.

Barasa, who was sworn in as Kakamega’s second governor in 2022 after succeeding Wycliffe Oparanya, was recognised for his outstanding efforts in advancing infrastructure development.

According to the Governors’ Award Excellence Committee, Barasa has overseen the construction of roads, bridges, public facilities, and major urban planning projects. His administration has prioritized access to clean water, electricity, modern healthcare, and educational institutions while implementing community-driven development initiatives to ensure projects meet local needs.

The citation further noted that his transparent governance and strategic planning have attracted investment and enhanced economic growth.

“Governor Barasa’s vision for sustainable infrastructure development has improved quality of life, increased connectivity, and strengthened social and economic opportunities, making him a leading figure in county-level development excellence,” read the committee’s statement.

The People’s Choice Governors’ Excellence Award has been established with several key objectives: to recognise outstanding leadership, promote good governance, inspire innovation and development, enhance public trust, encourage healthy competition, and align local initiatives with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Organizers said the award seeks to celebrate governors who uphold transparency, integrity, and innovation in governance, while also motivating them to deliver more transformative policies and projects.

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In his acceptance speech, Barasa expressed gratitude to the organizers and dedicated the award to the people of Kakamega.

“In my home country, this is a celebration and dedication to the people of Kakamega. Being recognized for excellence in infrastructure means a lot because infrastructure is not just an enabler of socio-economic development; it is the driver. With proper infrastructure, healthcare thrives, agriculture prospers, and people’s lives are transformed,” he said.

Barasa highlighted his administration’s ongoing projects, including the construction of nearly 40 kilometers of tarmac roads, 25 bridges, maintenance of feeder roads, and the building of a modern international stadium.

He also mentioned the ongoing construction of a 750-bed capacity hospital, among other transformative initiatives. “I dedicate this award to the people of Kakamega. It gives me the immense chance to do more so that we can continue transforming lives and placing Kakamega, and Kenya as a whole, on the global map,” he added.

newsdesk@standardmedia.co.ke