Nyamira County and Minnesota will soon forge a collaborative engagement on socio-economic affairs, courtesy of Kenyan-born Minnesota Representative to the US Assembly Huldah Momanyi Hiltsley.

Momanyi became the first immigrant woman to be elected to the legislative House, something which Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo termed a blessing to the county.

Nyaribo on Friday welcomed Momanyi to her home village of Nyamemiso in Kitutu Masaba constituency where a homecoming party was organised in her honour.

Momanyi first paid a courtesy call on the governor at his Nyamira Town office before they proceeded to Nyambaria Boys High School where the party was hosted.

During their meeting at the governor’s boardroom, Momanyi assured the county boss that with her election, she will ensure that the State of Minnesota and Nyamira County collaborate,  especially in economic development, health and culture.

“Our government has well laid out policies on how to foster relations with external entities and I am confident that we shall find a common road of engagement with the State of Minnesota in the key areas of collaboration as a way of improving lives here at home,” Momanyi said.

Leadership positions

She emphasised the need for the two foreign government entities to have educational and cultural exchange programs for learners and youths as well as creating opportunities for the promotion of business development.

Nyaribo said his government will work on modalities of facilitating the soon-to-be-founded relations and thanked his guest for having a positive idea towards the development of her home county.

“We thank the people of your district for having trust in you by electing you to represent them. We are happy that it’s the trust that has brightened our development path and the best we can do is to wish you well and pray for you to continue souring so that we also share in the fruit of your election,” Nyaribo said.

Kitutu Masaba  MP Clive Gisairo who attended the ceremony used the platform to implore women to aspire for leadership positions.

He said that the election of Huldah demonstrated that Kisii women have the capacity to lead locally and internationally.

 “This good lady has made the Kisii community and Kenyans proud for winning the elective political seat in  America,” said Gisairo.