By Daniel Otieno and Faith Anene, Kakamega
Governor Fernandes Barasa has led Kakamega County officials and residents in mourning the untimely death of Chief Officer for Education, Doreen Amwoga, who passed away on Sunday evening, while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Eldoret.
Barasa while paying tribute to the fallen Chief Officer said that “her death has left a significant void in the county’s leadership” and in the hearts of many who worked with her in the education sector.
He said that she was a committed civil servant with over a decade of exemplary service.
The late Amwoga joined the County Government of Kakamega on November 1, 2014, as Ward Administrator for Isukha Central.
Her diligence, humility, and strong leadership earned her a promotion to Sub-County Administrator in July 2020.
In 2022, she was appointed acting Chief Officer for Education before being reassigned briefly to the Department of Public Service and County Administration. She returned to the education docket in March 2025, serving in both capacities until her death.
News of her passing shocked many, triggering an outpouring of grief and tributes across the county and beyond.
“She was hardworking, honest, and loyal to the government. Her helpfulness and responsiveness will be sorely missed,” the governor said in a statement. “Her death has not only shocked us but has left a big gap in my administration.”
He pledged the county’s full support to her family and urged staff to honor her legacy by emulating her dedication to public service.
“On behalf of my family, the County Government, and the people of Kakamega, I extend my sincere condolences to Ms. Amwoga’s family. We assure them of our unwavering support during this difficult time,” he added.
Former Governor and current Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya also paid tribute, recalling how he personally appointed Doreen as Ward Administrator in 2014.
“From day one, her dedication was evident. She rose through the ranks because of her integrity and devotion to duty. Her loss is personal to me and to all who believed in her potential,” Oparanya said.
“In Doreen Amwoga, Kakamega had a rare gem—a woman of quiet strength, unshakable integrity, and deep commitment to community. Her light may have dimmed, but her legacy will continue to shine in classrooms, offices, and hearts across the county.”
Her contributions to education are remembered through the many young lives she empowered via policies, mentorship, and school development initiatives.
Former colleagues described her as a patient and attentive leader who always provided guidance when needed. Teachers and principals across Kakamega mourned the loss of a dependable ally who understood the realities of the classroom and responded with empathy and action.
