A Vision for Matili Technical Training Institute
Kimilili Member of Parliament (MP) Didmus Barasa is leading a renewed initiative to elevate the Matili Technical Training Institute (TTI) to national polytechnic status. This move aims to expand access to advanced technical education and equip the youth with skills that are in demand in the job market.
During a graduation ceremony held at the institute on Friday, Barasa commended the 3,000 graduates who have successfully completed various courses. The event was presided over by Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kipchumba Murkomen, who assured the institution of the ministry’s security support. Murkomen also recognized Barasa for his persistent efforts in pushing for the institute’s elevation to national status.
“I take this opportunity to thank all graduands and their parents for taking their time to study and obtain certificates that will help them secure employment or become self-employed in the future,” Barasa said during his speech.
Barasa further acknowledged President William Ruto for announcing, during his recent tour of the Western region, the elevation of Matili TTI to a national polytechnic. He shared that when he first expressed the desire for Matili to be upgraded, the opportunity was instead given to Kisiwa Technical Institute in Kabuchai Constituency.
The MP revealed that after the chance was awarded to Kisiwa, he did not give up but continued engaging relevant stakeholders who could influence the change in status.
“When the chance was awarded to Kisiwa, we were heartbroken by the decision, but I did not give up. I kept engaging people who could influence the decision, including the President.”
“Fortunately, during his recent tour of the region, he revived the hope of Matili becoming a national polytechnic and affirmed that it would soon be elevated,” he said.
If Matili attains national polytechnic status, it will join Bungoma National Polytechnic (formerly Sang’alo Institute of Science and Technology) and Kisiwa National Polytechnic. “Bungoma will go down in history as the only county with three national polytechnics,” he said.
To prepare the institute for national status, Barasa revealed that the government has initiated the construction of 2,500 hostels. “The President launched the construction of 2,500 hostels here at Matili, and in the next few weeks, we will break ground for another 2,500 hostels,” he said.
During his address, he also announced the construction and upgrading of roads and digital hubs where youth from Bungoma can apply for overseas jobs. The MP, who is seeking to succeed Kenneth Lusaka as governor, urged Bungoma residents to support him, affirming that if elected, he will distribute development projects across the entire county.
Transforming Service Delivery in Bungoma
Barasa also highlighted the push to establish a modern Huduma Centre in Kimilili, marking a significant shift in service delivery for residents who previously had to travel to Kakamega for advanced government services.
“For years, the cramped space at the Huduma Centre in Bungoma town has been unable to accommodate all critical government agencies, forcing residents to endure delays or travel long distances for essential services,” he said.
He noted that the newly launched Huduma Centre will host key agencies such as the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), sparing residents costly and time-consuming trips to Kakamega for services like driving licences and vehicle registration.
“Together with the elevation of Matili Technical Training Institute to national polytechnic status, Bungoma is steadily positioning itself as a hub for efficient public service delivery and advanced technical training,” he said.
Political Momentum and Rising Influence
Politically, these development strides are reinforcing Barasa’s growing influence, with analysts describing him as the “politician of the moment” in the county. They argue that in recent years, he has demonstrated a strong ability to mobilise large crowds across the county’s nine constituencies, signaling a robust grassroots network and rising popularity ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial race.
Despite facing serious political and legal challenges in the past, Barasa has navigated the turbulence and emerged stronger, reshaping the county’s political dynamics. His resilience was particularly evident after a high-profile court case that many believed would derail his career. Instead, following its collapse and his acquittal, he re-entered the political arena with renewed energy, embarking on aggressive countywide tours that reasserted his presence.
Within months, he recalibrated his political standing, countering rivals’ efforts and steadily consolidating support among leaders and voters. Barasa has also shown tactical ability in dismantling political alignments that initially appeared formidable.
When a bloc of Bungoma MPs and MCAs, particularly from the Ford Kenya party, signalled support for Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi in the 2027 gubernatorial race, analysts predicted a setback for Barasa. However, through sustained grassroots engagement and direct political pressure, he has gradually weakened Wanyonyi’s coalition, leaving it fragmented and struggling to maintain cohesion.
Analysts say the Bungoma gubernatorial contest is increasingly being shaped by Barasa’s momentum, with key regions showing signs of leaning in his favour. As his influence expands into areas such as Mt Elgon, following recognition by local elders, his candidacy continues to gain traction.
They add that while the race is far from decided, Barasa has positioned himself at the centre of Bungoma’s political landscape, turning what was once a crowded field into a contest where he is widely seen as a leading candidate.
