MYWO Plans Sh50 Million Plaza After Reclaiming Prime Kisumu Land

By Kepher Otieno - Reporter

Kenya, 27 January 2026 - Maendeleo Ya Wanawake Organisation (MYWO) in Kisumu County has unveiled ambitious plans to construct a modern MYWO Plaza on recently reclaimed land in the centre of the city.

The land is reportedly valued at nearly KSh 42 million. Reclaiming it marks a major milestone in the organisation’s decades-long struggle to protect and utilise assets meant to empower women.The parcel located next to the former Hangover area in Kisumu City, was originally allocated to MYWO in 1983 by former President Daniel arap Moi.

Over the years, the property became the subject of encroachment and illegal occupation, with unapproved structures springing up on the parcel.

However, after sustained efforts, legal follow-ups, and engagement with authorities, MYWO has now successfully reclaimed the land and secured a valid title deed, firmly restoring ownership to the organisation.The announcement was made during the MYWO Kisumu County Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Annual Reports Review Meeting, held at the Mama Grace Onyango Social Hall, by MYWO County Chair Caren Oloo.

The meeting brought together women leaders from across the county, representatives from all seven sub-counties, government officials, and political leaders to review progress, strengthen partnerships, and chart the future of the organisation.Speaking during the AGM, Kisumu County MYWO Chairperson, Mrs Oloo, described the reclamation of the land as a hard-won victory for women and a turning point in the organisation’s economic empowerment agenda.“This land belongs to the women of Kisumu. It was given to MYWO in 1983 with a clear purpose — to uplift women socially and economically. After many years of struggle, we have fought back and reclaimed what rightfully belongs to us,” said Mrs Oloo.She revealed that MYWO now plans to develop the property into a MYWO Plaza, a commercial complex expected to generate sustainable income for women’s programs across the county.

According to Oloo, the plaza will host business spaces, offices, and other income-generating facilities aimed at reducing donor dependency and strengthening the organisation’s financial independence.“In the near future, we want to see a MYWO Plaza standing on this land — a symbol of resilience, empowerment, and women’s leadership.

In the meantime, we will put the land to productive use through business initiatives as we mobilise resources for full development,” she said.Mrs. Oloo reaffirmed MYWO’s commitment to championing women’s rights, promoting economic empowerment, and strengthening partnerships with both government and private stakeholders.

She noted that the organisation remains focused on addressing key challenges affecting women, including poverty, gender-based violence, access to education, and economic inclusion.The AGM also served as a platform for accountability, with detailed annual reports presented from all seven sub-counties in Kisumu, highlighting achievements, challenges, and lessons learned over the past year.

Delegates praised the transparency and renewed focus on asset protection and sustainability.The event was graced by Kisumu Central Member of Parliament, Joshua Oron, who commended MYWO for its resilience and pledged his support towards the construction of the MYWO Plaza.

More from Kenya

Abdulqawi Yusuf warns at the UN Security Council over erosion of the rule of law and increasing violations.

Kisumu Central MP Oron Launches KSh 64 Million Bursary for Needy Students

Oron emphasised the importance of empowering women economically, noting that sustainable development cannot be achieved without investing in women-led initiatives.“I commit to working with MYWO to help mobilise resources for the construction of the MYWO Plaza. This project will not only benefit the organisation but also create opportunities and additional income for women across Kisumu County,” said Oron.He urged leaders and development partners to rally behind the initiative, describing it as a strategic investment that would have long-term social and economic returns.

Oron further encouraged women to take leadership in managing public and private assets, stating that women have proven to be responsible custodians of development resources.Also in attendance was Kisumu County Commissioner, Mr Bernard Leparmorio, who assured MYWO of the government’s full support in protecting the reclaimed land and supporting its development.

Leparmorio noted that the state recognises the critical role women play in nation-building and pledged continued collaboration to ensure MYWO’s vision is realised.“We want to assure you of support. The government is ready and willing to work with MYWO to build a firm foundation and a lasting legacy of women’s contribution to nation-building,” said the County Commissioner.Leparmorio further explained that the demolition of illegal structures previously erected on the land was carried out by city authorities in a bid to restore order, uphold the law, and protect public-interest assets.

He warned against land grabbing and urged organisations to safeguard their properties through proper documentation and engagement with authorities.Beyond development matters, the meeting also took a political tone, with MYWO leaders and members pledging loyalty and support to President William Ruto’s administration.

The women vowed to cooperate with the government and like-minded political actors in pursuit of policies and programs aimed at improving the welfare of citizens.Mrs. Oloo stated that MYWO is committed to working with the current regime to advance women-focused development agendas and promote unity and stability.“We are ready to support the government of the day and work with like-minded political parties for the common good of our people. Women want peace, development, and opportunities to thrive,” she said.Observers noted that the reclamation of the land and the planned MYWO Plaza signal a renewed era of assertiveness by women’s organisations in defending their assets and pursuing long-term economic empowerment.

The move is expected to inspire similar organisations to audit, reclaim, and develop properties that have remained dormant or under threat for years.As MYWO moves to operationalise its vision, attention now shifts to resource mobilisation, partnerships, and effective project implementation — all aimed at transforming the reclaimed land into a lasting symbol of women’s resilience, leadership, and contribution to Kenya’s development.