Ruto responds to Raila’s request for monument to immortalise Asiyo
President William Ruto has announced plans by the government to honour the late Phoebe Asiyo with a national monument in recognition of her outstanding contribution to women’s rights and development in Kenya.
Speaking on Friday, August 8, 2025, during the burial ceremony in Karachuonyo, Homa Bay, Ruto described the former legislator and diplomat as a trailblazer whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
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He revealed that the first monument will be erected in Homa Bay, her home county, followed by another in Nairobi, the nation’s capital. This was in response to a request made by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga at the burial ceremony.
“We will start with a monument here in Homa Bay to recognise Mama Phoebe Asiyo’s immense contribution. Later, we will also put up another monument in Nairobi so that the rest of the country and the world can honour her legacy,” he said.
The president praised Asiyo’s lifelong dedication to public service, gender equality, and community development, noting that she stood tall during difficult times and paved the way for many women leaders in Kenya.
“Phoebe Asiyo was not just a politician or diplomat; she was a leader in every sense. She was a voice for women when few dared to speak, and she helped shape the national conversation on equality, justice, and human rights,” Ruto stated.
He said the decision to commemorate Asiyo with a monument is part of a broader effort to preserve the history of Kenyan women who played critical roles in the country’s political and social transformation.
“As a country, we must remember those who laid the foundation. This monument will serve as a symbol of courage, determination, and selfless service to the nation,” he said.
Phoebe Asiyo, who passed on in July 2025, was the first woman in post-independence Kenya to serve as a senior chief and later as a Member of Parliament for Karachuonyo.
Raila’s request
Former prime minister had called on President William Ruto to immortalise the late Phoebe Asiyo with a monument in Nairobi, hailing her as one of Kenya’s most dedicated champions of women’s rights and public service.
Speaking during Asiyo’s state funeral service on Friday, August 8, 2025, Raila said the former Karachuonyo MP left a legacy that should be preserved for generations.
uality, social reforms, and community development. Raila described her as a fearless voice who broke political barriers and inspired women to take leadership roles at a time when female representation was rare.
“She fought for the rights of Kenyans. Also, when she was a Member of Parliament for Karachuonyo, she was one of the people who consoled me when my father died,” Raila said.
“I’m happy today that the government of President Ruto has allowed Phoebe to have the kind of funeral she deserves as a hero. And I want Mr President to follow it up by dedicating a monument in Nairobi for Phoebe Asiyo because she has done what many have failed to do.”
