Consolata Achieng: Woman who travelled to Nigeria Masquerading as a Kisumu County Official

Kisumu County is currently facing serious accusations of corruption, fraud, and unethical behavior, mainly focusing on City Manager Abala Wanga and his questionable trip to Lagos, Nigeria, in July 2024.

This scandal revolves around the misuse of public funds, false representation, and improper personal relationships, which have led to public anger and demands for investigations.

The main accusation is that Abala Wanga traveled to Lagos with a woman who falsely claimed to be the Head of Project Management and Investments for the City of Kisumu to get permission for the trip.

The woman, Consolata Achieng, who is the branch manager of Stanbic Bank in Kisumu, was seen meeting Wanga at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport before they left for Nigeria.

She is also said to be involved in business activities with the Kisumu County Government through her companies, such as Tacoa Enterprises and Bajach Limited.

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Official papers from the Kisumu County Government incorrectly identified her as an official, helping her obtain a visa, travel, and allowances.

Reports suggest that her travel expenses, including flights and stipends, were fully paid for with public money.

Her travel approval involved several government departments, including the Department of Devolution and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Kisumu County Secretary Hesbon Hongo, who allegedly approved her clearance while knowing she wasn’t a county employee, is also involved in this scandal.

Further investigation strongly suggests that the companies associated with Achieng have reportedly gained contracts from the county, raising concerns about possible favoritism and financial wrongdoing linked to her alleged ties with the Kisumu City Manager.

Additionally, the bank where she works has been drawn into the scandal, facing accusations of unethical behavior among its senior staff.

A petition has been presented to the bank’s management, asking for an internal review of allegations that one of its employees was involved in fraud. This includes claims of misrepresentation and improper use of public resources while pretending to perform official tasks. The petition was also sent to the EACC and DCI.