Though it plays second fiddle to Siaya, Homa Bay County is at the center of Luo Nyanza politics. And going forward, the Governor Cyprian Awiti-led devolved unit may write its own unique political history if the recent trend is anything to go by.
For long, Homa Bay politics has been dominated by male politicians. But since 2013, there has been a major shift that could define the county's politics in future.
Before 2013, there was no elected female MP in Homa Bay. The then human rights activist Millie Odhiambo was nominated to Parliament, a move that changed the terrain.
In 2013, she contested the Mbita MP seat and won. And with the new constitutional dispensation, Gladys Wanga won the Women Rep seat. The duo's election could later pave way for a major shift in the county's politics.
Keen to follow the footsteps of the two firebrand female MPs, 2017 saw many women from the region take on seasoned make politicians. And they never disappointed. Millie Odhiambo and Gladys Wanga defended their seats. Then there were two new entrants: Dr. Lilian Gogo trounced George Oner in Rangwe while Eve Obara eclipsed Silcance Osele in Kabando Kasipul. Four female MPs in the entire county is an incredible number especially for a country that is still grappling with gender issues.
So what is the future of Homa Bay County politics? Are female politicians finally set to dominate their male counterparts? Well, the writing is on the wall.