Kirinyanga County officials distributed 150,000 condoms ahead of a major devolution conference, sparking public debate over the government's response to perceived risks of misconduct during the event.
The conference, which attracted over 6,000 delegates, saw an unusual influx of individuals from Nairobi, including reports of sex workers leveraging the gathering to engage with county government staff. A local resident noted, 'These ladies are well informed they know employees of county governments are exposed to corrupt money and this was their moment to have a share of the cake.'
County deputy public health officer Peter Irungu defended the condom distribution, stating it was a preventive measure against potential health risks. However, critics argued the gesture inadvertently highlighted the event's reputation for inappropriate behavior. 'Giving out thousands of condoms a head to participants ahead of the devolution conference is a good preventive measures but it was also like reminding them the event was love-making moment,' a Nairobi resident commented.
The conference also coincided with renewed scrutiny of Kirinyanga's deputy governor, following a 2019 scandal where he was caught in an extramarital affair during a similar event in Kakamega. The incident, captured on video and widely shared online, led to public condemnation and questions about leadership conduct.
Some delegates were forced to seek lodging in neighboring counties due to overcrowding, while officials faced criticism for prioritizing health supplies over addressing concerns about ethical lapses among attendees.
