Leaders from the Iteso community met with Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi on Monday to present proposals aimed at increasing the community’s participation in government programs and decision-making.
The delegation, led by Teso North MP Hon. Oku Kaunya, submitted a detailed memorandum calling for stronger administrative recognition, affirmative action, and mechanisms to ensure equitable engagement across national initiatives.
During the meeting, Musalia acknowledged the memorandum and highlighted the importance of structured collaboration between minority communities and the government.
He pointed to the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) as a framework that provides opportunities for marginalized groups, emphasizing that the initiative seeks to improve livelihoods, expand economic access, and enhance service delivery nationwide.
“Their presentation reaffirmed that BETA is not only a national blueprint but a people-centered agenda expanding opportunities, transforming livelihoods, and improving service delivery across the country,” Musalia said in a statement posted on X.
The CS noted that the 2010 Constitution guarantees inclusive governance, equality, and affirmative action for marginalized communities.
He assured the Iteso leaders that their proposals had been carefully considered and that a lawful, coordinated approach would guide implementation within government systems.
The Iteso community, predominantly residing in Teso North and South constituencies in Western Kenya, has historically raised concerns over underrepresentation in public administration and access to development initiatives.
The meeting with Musalia is part of ongoing engagement by the administration to address these issues through policy alignment and structured dialogue.
Musalia also offered continued personal engagement to support the community’s objectives and ensure that their concerns are reflected in national planning.
The delegation’s memorandum and Musalia’s response underscore the government’s intent to promote inclusive development while respecting constitutional provisions on equality and representation.