Who Is Catherine Omanyo? Profile of the New ODM Secretary General

Catherine Nakhabi Omanyo, the Busia County Woman Representative, has been appointed the new Acting Secretary General of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). Her appointment follows recent changes in the party’s leadership, replacing Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna in a major reshuffle announced on February 11, 2026.

The decision, made by ODM’s National Executive Committee, marks a significant shift in the party’s top leadership as political realignments begin to take shape ahead of the next election cycle.

Rise Within ODM Leadership

Before she was appointed Acting Secretary General, Omanyo served as the Deputy Secretary General of ODM. During this period, she steadily strengthened her influence within the party while expanding her grassroots support in Busia County through community-focused projects and social programs.

Her elevation to the party’s top administrative position reflects her growing political stature and trust within ODM’s leadership structures.

Early Life and Background

Catherine Omanyo was born on July 7, 1970, in Busia County. Her childhood was marked by hardship after losing her father at the age of fourteen. Following his death, her mother rejected cultural practices that would have forced her into remarriage within the family, a decision that left the household socially isolated and financially strained.

As one of ten children, Omanyo faced serious challenges in accessing education. At times, she would secretly attend classes without formal enrollment, only to be chased away. Despite these obstacles, she remained determined to pursue education.

Education and Social Initiatives

In 1998, Omanyo earned a scholarship to study at the University of Nairobi. To support herself, she worked by washing clothes while continuing her studies in the capital.

While in Nairobi, she noticed many children from informal settlements lacked access to education. This inspired her to begin tutoring them, which later led to the establishment of Imprezza Academy in 2001.

The school later grew into the International School for Champions, a free learning institution in Busia that supports orphaned and vulnerable children near the Kenya-Uganda border.

Political Journey

Omanyo entered politics in 2007 when she contested the Nambale parliamentary seat under the KADU party, finishing third. She later contested the Matayos constituency seat in the 2013 and 2017 general elections but did not win.

Her breakthrough came in 2022 when she was elected Busia County Woman Representative on an ODM ticket, succeeding Florence Mutua.