“I told my family members I have cancer, and they started crying all over,” - Homa Bay Governor GLADYS WANGA opens up on 12-year cancer battle.

Friday, August 28, 2026 - Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has revealed that she has been battling cancer for the past 12 years.

Speaking during the commissioning of the Phoebe Asiyo Oncology Center at Homa Bay County Teaching and Referral Hospital (HBCTRH), Wanga recounted the moment she broke the news to her family.

 “I told my family members I have cancer, and they started crying all over, but I was not crying,” she said.

The governor recalled encouragement from nominated senator Beth Mugo, who is a cancer survivor.

 “It is your mind that is going to kill you. It is not the cancer.” Wanga said those words from Beth Mugo helped her remain mentally strong throughout her journey.

At the time of her diagnosis, she was a Member of Parliament (MP) and chose to focus on gratitude.

“I said, let me thank God because I had the opportunity to get treatment in the same way I have as a member of parliament,” she explained.

Wanga emphasized that thanksgiving became central to her healing process.

“All I always did was just to thank God. And in thanksgiving, 12 years later, I am here.

“I am not going anywhere,” she declared with resolve.

Her personal story was tied to her vision for expanding cancer services in Homa Bay.

She noted that the new oncology center will serve residents who need treatment close to home, with plans to introduce chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

The Kenyan DAILY POST