James Charles Nakhwanga Osogo was born on 10 October 1932 in Bukani Village, Budalangi, Busia County. He studied at St Mary’s Yala School, the famous Catholic Church sponsored institution that nurtured many a talent in Kenya’s formative years.
Mr Osogo worked as an Assistant Station Master at various railway stations in Kenya and Uganda 1951-1953. In 1953, he enrolled at Kagumo Teachers’ Training College and graduated three years later.
In 1955-1959 he worked as a teacher at various schools in Kenya. In 1960, Osogo was the Headmaster Kibasanga School and in 1961, he was the Headmaster Nangina School.
In 1963, James was elected as the Member House of Representatives for Ruwambwa.
He was first appointed Assistant Minister for Agriculture in 1964-1966, Minister for Information and Broadcasting (1966-1969), Minister for Commerce and Industry (1969-1973) within which he also served concurrently as Minister for Agriculture from May 1970.
He was also Minister for Local Government between 1973-1974, Minister for Health in 1974 and concurrently headed the Foreign Affairs docket.
Mr Osogo was also the Deputy Leader of Government Business in 1978, Minister for Agriculture in 1979 and Minister for Livestock in 1980.
He was awarded severally by various governments for his distinguished service including receiving the Elder, Order of the Golden Heart (Kenya); Grand Cordon of the Star of Ethiopia; Order of the Star of Africa (Liberia) and Grand Cross of the Star Yugoslav Flag (1st Class).Mzee Osogo died in Kisumu County on August 15, 2023 aged 91.
By Hilda Amboko
Pictures from KNA Archives.
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