Vihiga residents oppose plan to compose county anthem

Vihiga Governor Wilber Ottichilo. [File, Standard]

A section of Vihiga residents has opposed the county government’s decision to develop a county anthem.

In February, Governor Wilber Ottichilo unveiled the County Flag and Other Symbols Selection Panel, which is tasked with overseeing the anthem’s creation.

The panel has now officially announced the start of the anthem composition process and is calling on residents to participate in the historic, culture-shaping initiative.

According to a public notice issued by the Department of Gender, Culture, Youth, Sports, and Social Services, the devolved unit has unveiled a five-day public participation schedule.

The forums will take place across all six sub-counties and aim to engage residents in crafting an anthem that reflects the county's identity, unity and aspirations. The sessions will be held from June 30 to July 4, 2025, beginning at 9am each day.

The government says the initiative is part of the implementation of the Vihiga County Flag and Other Symbols Act, 2014, which grants the county the mandate to establish official symbols representing its heritage and values.

According to the county government, developing an official county anthem will serve as a unifying symbol and foster local pride.

However, the move has sparked criticism from residents and civil rights groups, who argue that the county should prioritize more pressing development issues.

The Vihiga Human Rights Defender Group is leading the opposition, insisting that the county should focus on improving infrastructure, healthcare, and water services rather than investing in ceremonial symbols.

Stephen Chahasi, one of the vocal critics, highlighted the dire state of essential services in the county. "Walk around our health institutions, and you will be sad — nothing is going on. Yet we are talking about using taxpayers' money to compose music," Chahasi lamented.

He also called for transparency in the funding of the process, which will be led by a seven-member selection committee.

Another resident, Brown Kihusa, questioned the timing and necessity of the initiative. "What is the importance of an anthem, flags, and other symbols to the well-being of citizens? Do those things require a whole panel and unnecessary meetings? Is it a priority now?" he posed.

On social media, the county has also faced fierce opposition, with many questioning why roads, health facilities, and stadiums remain in deplorable condition while the county pushes to produce an anthem.

Despite the backlash, the county government has defended the initiative, stating that the anthem will be a vital symbol of unity and identity.

Speaking after the swearing-in of the selection panel, Governor Ottichilo asserted that their collective expertise would produce a compelling and memorable anthem. He underscored the importance of having official symbols that define Vihiga’s identity and aspirations.

"To build a united and prosperous county, we need symbols that celebrate our heritage and inspire our people. The anthem will promote unity, cohesion, and pride while enhancing the county’s visibility and recognition," the governor said.

Even amid the criticism, the county government has yet to disclose the cost of the project to the public.

The panel overseeing the initiative includes Richard Khadambi, Humphrey Kisia, Kennedy Omboko, Rosemary Kwendo, Jacob Otondo, Jacinta Mudeizi, and Grace Muyoma.