By Nyang’au Araka
There was laughter, song and dance when Minnesota’s House Representative Elect, Huldah Momanyi Hiltsley arrived in Kenya on Tuesday.
Momanyi is in the country for an eight day tour of her motherland before she returns to the United States.
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The politician got a warm reception when she arrived at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) shortly after 11am on Tuesday.
Jared Mombinya, an artist from Momanyi’s home County of Nyamira was on standby with obokano, an instrument that is the identity of the Gusii people’s music.
Momanyi was received by family, friends, relatives and political leaders including South Mugirango legislator Silvanus Osoro who is also the National Assembly chief whip.
Duke Mainga, a member of the Board of Trustees at the Commodities Fund was also present.
Mombinya played his instrument while singing praise songs as others danced.
“We’ve arrived! I’m happy to be home,” Momanyi said.
She was driven to her hotel in the city from where she would later be taken to attend a function at Daystar University later in the day.
The meeting targeted leaders from various sectors, including the clergy and human rights activists.
Tomorrow, she will have other engagements including paying a courtesy call to the Permanent Secretary (PS) – Ministry of Diaspora Affairs.
Momanyi will join President William Ruto and other Kenyans during Jamhuri celebrations in the city on Thursday.
Later, she will travel to Gusii for other planned activities.
There will be a homecoming/ thanksgiving party at Nyambaria High School grounds.
Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo will play host.
Several leaders and community members are expected to attend the ceremony.
Momanyi hit international headlines last month after she became the first immigrant to be elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives.
The politician was born at Nyamemiso village of Magombo Ward, Nyamira County.
She moved to the US when she was nine alongside her parents.
Momanyi is a Democrat and was elected of Farmers- Labour Party.
She will represent District 38 at the Minnesota House of Representatives.
