The Linda Mwananchi movement, spearheaded by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, successfully raised Sh1,629,662 during a fundraising tour across Western Kenya over the past weekend.

The funds came from thousands of supporters who contributed via cash and M-Pesa during rallies held in various towns. Bungoma led in collections with Sh914,473 from 13,528 donors, followed by Kitale with Sh692,124 from 9,952 contributors. Additionally, Kamukuywa residents donated Sh23,065 in cash.

During the tour, Sifuna engaged with local residents through public rallies and grassroots mobilization efforts ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Grassroots Support Demonstrated

Residents in Kiminini, Trans Nzoia County, spontaneously turned a roadside rally into a fundraising event by donating small cash amounts ranging from Sh20 coins to Sh50 notes. Videos circulating on social media showed supporters eagerly handing their contributions directly to Sifuna's convoy.

Addressing the crowd, Sifuna emphasized the importance of funding political campaigns through ordinary citizens rather than wealthy individuals, stating:

“I would rather be indebted to the people giving me as little as Sh10 than be indebted to one person who will give me Sh10 million.”

He warned that dependence on a few affluent donors often leads to compromised leadership once in office, as such financiers expect lucrative contracts in return.

Growing Public Confidence

Sifuna praised Kenyans for their continued financial support via the movement’s paybill, which has consistently received small contributions nationwide. He described this as proof of increasing public trust and a sustainable funding model that does not rely on government resources or wealthy benefactors.

The tour included stops at multiple trading centers and was supported by prominent leaders such as Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale, and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino.

The Linda Mwananchi movement’s fundraising success reflects a growing grassroots momentum as it prepares for the upcoming elections.