𝑻𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒔 𝑵𝒛𝒐𝒊𝒂 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒇𝒇 𝑴𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒏 𝑫𝒆𝒅𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝑷𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒓 𝑱𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝑨𝒃𝒖𝒚𝒂.

Staff from the Department of Lands, Physical Planning, Housing and Urban Development in Trans Nzoia County gathered Thursday at Ardhi House for a candle-lighting ceremony in honour of Planner James Gak Abuya, who died recently after a short illness.

Abuya, who joined the county government in 2015, served for over a decade in several sub-counties, including Cherangani, Kwanza, and most recently, Kiminini, where he was working until his passing.

Representatives from the department, including Dr Roselyne Nasiebanda, Chief Officer for Lands, and Beatrice Wangila, Director of Physical Planning, praised Abuya’s legacy of integrity and dedication.

Speaking on their behalf, Pamela Indimuli described him as “a hardworking, committed and professional civil servant who diligently served the public.”

“He was respectful, soft-spoken, and always willing to help. He ensured that everyone who came for service at the department left satisfied,” Indimuli added.

Alvin Chemwoite, another staff member, hailed Abuya as a mentor and trainer, especially to students undergoing internship and industrial attachment at the department.

Colleagues Martin Nguma and John Sitienei remembered Abuya as “disciplined, faithful and peaceful,” noting that he fostered harmony both within the department and in the communities he served.

Representatives from the National Lands Commission and the national government’s Settlement Department, including Crecencia Nyanga, also attended the remembrance.

They praised Abuya’s spirit of collaboration, noting that despite the devolution of physical planning to county governments, he frequently offered his expertise to national departments when called upon.

“He always responded to the call of duty,” Nyanga said. “Even while battling health challenges, he remained committed to ensuring that every client received quality service.”

Staff from various other departments across the county government—including Public Works, Trade, and Health—also paid tribute.

David Waudo, Oscar Ombudi, and James Gitau described Abuya as “an all-round civil servant” who consistently offered support across departments to ensure seamless service delivery.

Planner James Gak Abuya will be laid to rest at his rural home in Chinga Village, Kisumu County, on Saturday, 31 May 2025.

May 31, 2025