Wilson Jagembe: The “Luo Man in a White Man’s Colour” Behind Nyasaye Erokamano

Wilson Jagembe, popularly known as Awil Jagembe, is a long-serving fabrication engineer and respected community figure in Mbita Town, Homa Bay County.

Awil originally came from Europe, where he was born to a British family. He later moved to Kenya, where he has lived for over three decades.

Awil has spent nearly five decades in Mbita and its outskirts.

Over the years, he has built a reputation that was grounded in technical expertise and deep community integration with the people of Mbita.

Career

Awil Jagembe is widely recognised for his work in fabrication engineering, which he has more than 30 years of experience.

His work is largely centred on building boats and maintaining them along the Lake Victoria region, aside from the construction of septic tanks.

One of his projects is the Nyasaye Erokamano boat, a project that reflects years of engineering skills and his persistence.

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Project Nyasaye Erokamano

Even though the boat is not yet launched, work has been completed, and infrastructure, including a road to the lake, is underway to facilitate its eventual debut.

People of the community describe Awil as focused and articulate.

These qualities have made him take on mentorship roles, including involvement in local sports initiatives such as the Rusinga Raiders rugby team.

Beyond fabrication, Awil Jagembe is also said to have introduced construction technology in Mbita and its surrounding areas, including Suba North and Suba South.

Awil’s Education

Drawing from his academic background, he studied in Britain, where he earned a diploma in Artistic Environmental Design.

His training equipped him with skills in concrete work, steel fabrication, structural systems, and even construction.

Through Awil’s efforts, this building method, which is known for its durability and cost effectiveness, has gradually been adopted within the region.

Marriage And Life

Awil Jagembe is married to Benta Wilson, a Luo woman from Rodi Kopany, often referred to as Nyar Kanyada by residents.

The couple has six children. Among them is Lulu Wilson, also known as Lulu Nyarjatelo, a filmmaker who has occasionally featured her father in her work.

His other children, who are mentioned in community accounts, include Pauline, Maurice, Plug, and Vall.

Awil Jagembe spent part of his early childhood in Lanet, Nakuru, where his father served as a military officer attached to the King’s African Rifles in 1928.

Culture And Tradition

While details of his early education remain limited, residents of Mbita recall his presence dating back many years, noting his familiarity with traditional practices such as the use of natural ovens.

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Despite his background, he is widely regarded as having fully embraced the Luo culture.

Awil is often referred to as “a Luo man in a white man’s colour,” reflecting his long-standing cultural connection to the region and the people too.

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One of Awil’s projects, Nyasaye Erokamano. PHOTO/Reagan Odira FB