Kisumu County is in mourning following the death of a senior county executive whose public service career spanned key departments and development initiatives.
Leaders across the county have described the loss as a major blow to governance and community development efforts.
Governor Anyang' Nyong'o announced the passing of Hon. Salmon Orimba, the County Executive Committee Member for Public Service, County Administration and Participatory Development.
He described the death as both a personal and institutional loss.
“With gross pain and remorse, I share the painful news of the passing of Hon. Salmon Orimba,” the governor said, noting that he had lost a trusted colleague and friend.
Nyong’o praised Orimba’s humility, discipline and quiet strength, saying his work consistently spoke for itself despite his reluctance to seek the spotlight.
The governor recalled that from his first term in office, Orimba demonstrated commitment and professionalism in every role he held.
He previously served in Water, Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change, Infrastructure, Energy and Public Works, before his most recent assignment in public service and county administration.
Nyong’o said Orimba believed in building strong institutions and ensuring government systems worked for ordinary citizens. He described him as steady in moments of crisis and generous in crediting others for achievements.
“This is not only a painful blow to the County Executive but a great loss to the people of Kisumu and the community of Kajulu,” he added, extending condolences to the family alongside his wife Dorothy Nyong’o.
Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda also mourned Orimba, saying he passed away after battling illness with courage and resilience.
He described Orimba as a dedicated public servant whose efforts to strengthen county administration and promote participatory development touched many lives.
“His steady leadership, humility and tireless service will be remembered for years to come,” Ojienda said.
County officials, colleagues and residents have continued to send messages of condolence, remembering Orimba as a quiet but effective leader who helped strengthen governance structures and guide key development projects.
His legacy, leaders said, lives on through the institutions he helped build and the lives he touched across Kisumu County.