By Daily Times Reporter
RANGWE, HOMA BAY COUNTY, KENYA — A new chapter in youth empowerment and community service was officially opened on May 17, 2026, following the successful launch of the Kagan Open Troop at Kego Academy in Rangwe Constituency, Homa Bay County, Kenya.
The colourful event was presided over by Homa Bay County Commissioner Peter Kisulu, accompanied by Sub-County Commissioners and senior officials from the scouting fraternity. The launch brought together scouts, community leaders, educators, youth representatives, and invited guests in a celebration of leadership, service, and youth development.
The Kagan Open Troop, led by Troop Leader Enock Diang’a, was officially inaugurated in a ceremony that featured a flag-breaking parade, scouting exhibitions, cultural performances, leadership addresses, and a tree-planting exercise aimed at promoting environmental conservation.
Speaking to Daily Times Newspaper in Dubai, the founder and sponsor of the troop, Benjamin Odoyo, emphasized his commitment to uplifting young people and creating opportunities that will help them become productive members of society.
Odoyo explained that the troop was established to provide young people with meaningful engagement and practical life skills.
“My passion is to see young people stay away from drugs and other destructive behaviours by keeping them actively engaged in programmes that build character, leadership, and life-serving skills,” he said.
He further noted that one of the troop’s key priorities will be bridging the digital divide among young people in rural communities.
“We are determined to close the digital gap affecting many youths by empowering them with ICT knowledge and digital skills that are essential in today’s world. Technology should be an opportunity available to every young person regardless of where they come from,” he added.
The event attracted notable guests from the Kenya Scouts Association, including Mr. Elly Kisulu, HSC, who served as the Guest of Honour, Mr. Maxwell Lang’o, Assistant County Scouts Commissioner (Youth Programme), Madam Celestine Adhiambo, Sub-County Scouts Commissioner for Rangwe, Mr. Polycarp Kamala, Assistant Sub-County Scouts Commissioner (Youth Programme), and former Rangwe Commissioner Mr. Pollsen Ojowi.
Also present were members of Kachar Girls Scouts and the Blue Bells Band from King Solomon School, whose performances added colour and excitement to the occasion.
According to Troop Leader Enock Diang’a, the formation of the Kagan Open Troop is intended to strengthen youth participation in scouting while promoting leadership, mentorship, community service, and environmental stewardship.
The launch highlighted the troop’s vision of developing responsible citizens through scouting values such as integrity, discipline, teamwork, and service to others. Participants also took part in a community tree-planting exercise, reinforcing the troop’s commitment to environmental conservation.
The newly established Kagan Open Troop now embarks on what leaders describe as a promising journey focused on youth empowerment, digital inclusion, leadership development, and positive community impact throughout Homa Bay County and beyond.
