Mwala MP Vincent Musyoka ( Right) with the newly installed Mwala Divisional Commander Lt. Col. Phenia Karanja and newly installed Director of Women Ministries Lt. Col. Evangeline Karanja at the Mwala DHQ on February 22, 2026. Photo Courtesy. 
By Andrew Mbuva.
Mwala Member of Parliament , popularly known as Kawaya, has challenged the Church to intensify its role in combating drug abuse, even as he lauded its longstanding contribution to spiritual and social transformation.
Speaking during the installation service of Lt. Col. Phenia Karanja as Mwala Divisional Commander and Lt. Col. Evangeline Karanja as Director of Women Ministries at the Mwala DHQ, the legislator emphasized the need for faith-based institutions to remain at the forefront of moral and community renewal.
The colourful ceremony was presided over by Colonels Mario and Celeste Nhacumba, the Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women Ministries, respectively.
In his address, MP Musyoka commended the Salvation Army for its steadfast commitment to spiritual growth, social justice, and holistic community development. He noted that the Church continues to play a transformative role through charity initiatives, youth mentorship, family support programs, and empowerment efforts aimed at uplifting the most vulnerable members of society.
“The Church has remained a pillar of hope in our communities. Through its programs, many lives have been transformed and families restored,” he said.
However, the MP used the occasion to urge the Church to deepen its involvement in the fight against drug and substance abuse, which he described as a growing threat to young people in the constituency and beyond.
He criticized leaders who, he said, shield security officers allegedly linked to the drug trade instead of standing with ordinary citizens.
“It is wrong for political leaders to speak in protection of security officers associated with the sale of drugs. Our duty is to stand with the mwananchi and safeguard the future of our youth,” he stated.
Musyoka called for stronger collaboration between the Church, community leaders, and government agencies to address the vice, stressing that moral authority and grassroots engagement are key in winning the battle against drug abuse.
He congratulated Lt. Col. Phenia Karanja and Lt. Col. Evangeline Karanja on their appointments, describing their elevation as well deserved. He wished them wisdom, strength, and God’s guidance as they take up their new responsibilities.
The installation service drew congregants, local leaders, and clergy, underscoring the central role the Church continues to play in shaping both faith and social responsibility within the Mwala community.
