IS JOSHUA THE REAL JOSHUA FOR KIMILILI?

- May 05, 2025

EoK Reports | Editorial

Young, Bold, Spirit-Led, and on a Mission to Deliver the Promised Land

From left, Hon. Fred Joshua Makokha, Hon. Ferdinand Wanyonyi & Speaker Moses Wetangula

A rise of a new sheriff in (town) Kimilili, capturing hearts with his humility, bold ideas, and community-first leadership, Hon. Fred Joshua Makokha. In the footsteps of outgoing MP Didmus Barasa, who has officially declared interest in the Bungoma County Governorship, Joshua has stepped forward, not to compete, but to complete.

His rallying cry? Let’s not break what’s working. Let’s build on it together.

THE TORCH IS PASSING AND THE MISSION CONTINUES

From his words, Fred Joshua Makokha has not come to and is not challenging the development legacy of Hon. Didmus Barasa. He is supporting him for Governor and pledging to ensure that Kimilili Constituency continues thriving under stable, capable leadership.

“Hon. Didmus Barasa has done us proud he’s built schools, roads, and empowered our youth. Now that he’s moving up, we need someone who shares his vision to carry on the work. That’s why I’m stepping forward,” Makokha stated.

POWERED BY FAITH, ROOTED IN THE PEOPLE

This week alone, Fred Joshua was everywhere Kimilili needed him:

1.At the Marketplace with Mama Mbogas

In the bustling heart of Kimilili’s informal economy, Fred Joshua Makokha spent time with the real hustlers, "our Mama Mbogas." He didn’t come with speeches or promises. He came with ears to listen and a heart to understand.

He shared laughter, chai, and conversations with the women who wake up before dawn to feed families and drive the local economy. As a sign of solidarity, he donated umbrellas and aprons, simple yet practical tools to shield them from sun and rain as they prepare for their upcoming mega meeting.

“Their stories moved me. Their energy inspired me. These are the real engines of Kimilili,” Fred said after the meeting.

2. To the Classrooms of CBSM School, Bearing Food and Hope

Hon. Fred Joshua led a compassion mission to CBSM School in Kimilili town. With friends and supporters by his side, he donated bags of rice and maize to ease the burden on the school’s kitchen, ensuring that children can study on full stomachs.

But he didn’t stop there. He announced the launch of an education sponsorship program under the Fred Joshua Makokha Foundation, committing to sponsor 40 needy students 10 from each Ward in Kimilili Constituency.

“Education is the key to transformation. These students represent the future, and we will not let poverty block their dreams.”

3. A Spiritual Homecoming at Chrisco Church

Returning to the sacred halls of Chrisco Church, where his spiritual journey began, Fred honored a promise he made during a previous visit.

With reverence and love, he donated Ksh. 200,000 to support the church's ongoing projects. He further pledged to deliver construction materials worth Ksh. 500,000 to ensure the sanctuary expansion project is completed.

“Chrisco shaped my values, my service, and my faith. Now it’s time for me to give back in a meaningful way.”

In an emotionally charged moment, he also publicly declared his intention to seek the Kimilili MP seat, telling the congregation that he would deliver it through their prayers.

4. Standing with Families in Times of Sorrow

Fred Joshua’s leadership as envisioned is not only visible in celebratory moments but also in times of grief.

This week, he stood shoulder to shoulder with Rt. Hon. Dr. Moses Wetang’ula and Senator Hon. Wafula Wakoli at the home of the late Hon. Eric Musumba, former MCA for Sikhendu Ward, offering condolences and solidarity.

Later, he joined Mwalimu Patrick Wandili’s family in a fundraiser for burial arrangements after the loss of Wandili’s beloved mother, offering both emotional and financial support.

“A leader walks with his people not just in the spotlight, but in the shadows of grief, where comfort is most needed.”

This isn’t just politics. This is compassionate leadership in motion meeting people at the marketplace, in schools, in churches, and in their homes, doing what true leaders do: showing up, stepping in, and standing with the people.

ENDORSED IN SPIRIT AND STRATEGY

Fred Joshua’s strength lies in deep connections:

Locally, he has grassroots credibility, growing from the church pews to community halls.

Politically, he is mentored and supported by Ford Kenya Party Leader and Speaker of the National Assembly, Rt. Hon. Moses Wetang’ula.

Internationally, Fred Joshua's influence extends far beyond Kimilili. He currently serves as the Chief of Party, East Africa Division for the American Institute for International Policy Makers and Public Administrators (AIIPMPA)—a respected international organisation based in Jackson Mississippi advancing diplomacy and sustainable global development.

With over five years of experience at AIIPMPA, Fred Joshua leads efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties, guide policy development, and promote inclusive growth across East Africa. His role underscores not only his regional leadership but also his strategic global perspective making him a leader who understands both grassroots concerns and international dynamics.

THE MESSAGE: UNITY, CONTINUITY, AND YOUTHFUL ENERGY

“We are not here to fight. We are here to finish. Let Didmus go to the County Government with our support. Let us walk Kimilili to the next chapter together,” Makokha said in a packed gathering at Mwalimu Wandili's home.

THE REAL JOSHUA?

In the Bible, Joshua led the people into the Promised Land after Moses. In Kimilili, many are beginning to draw parallels.

Fred Joshua Makokha is out representing continuity with change, progress with humility, and boldness with purpose. With the outgoing MP moving on to greater heights, the question remains: