Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga reveals 12-year battle with colorectal cancer

Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has revealed that she has battled colorectal cancer for the past 12 years, opening up about her experience during the launch of the new Phoebe Asiyo Oncology Centre.

The governor recalled being a newly elected member of parliament at the time of her diagnosis, and said she chose thanksgiving over despair.

Wanga used her personal testimony to announce major plans to bring chemotherapy and radiotherapy services to Homa Bay county.

She credited her family, faith and messages of encouragement from leaders and friends for giving her strength throughout the difficult treatment journey.

Gladys Wanga now says she has cancer and that, if re-elected, she will build cancer facilities in Homa Bay to provide screening and treatment. pic.twitter.com/8jy8TqsQac

— Omwamba ?? (@omwambaKE) August 28, 2026

She particularly recalled advice from former nominated Senator Beth Mugo, who also survived cancer, saying it helped her maintain a positive outlook during treatment.

“Many thought I was going to die. I just saw my family members walking in the corridors, crying everywhere. But me, I wasn’t crying because Beth Mugo told me one thing, and it is the same thing I have told everybody: it is the mind that is going to kill you; it is not the cancer,” she said.

Wanga said she is now healthy and cancer-free, and has chosen to use her experience to advocate for improved cancer care and stronger healthcare systems in Homa Bay.

"All I did always was just to thank God. And in thanksgiving, 12 years later, I am here. I am not going anywhere," she said.

She also said her personal experience with the disease influenced the county government’s plans to improve local health facilities, particularly cancer diagnosis and treatment services.

The county is working to establish local diagnostic and treatment capabilities to reduce the need for residents to travel outside Homa Bay for specialised care.

Wanga said the programme will begin with chemotherapy services, with plans to progressively expand cancer care to include more comprehensive treatment, including radiotherapy.