By Wepukhulu Rasto, Kakamega
Invest and Grow (IG) Sacco has ushered in a new era of leadership following the formal handover of office from longtime Chief Executive Officer Dr CPA Peter A. Vuhyah to Acting CEO Mary Awino.
Vuhyah, who has served the Sacco for 26 years, officially handed over the instruments of office to Awino during a ceremony held at the IG Sacco Head Office in Kakamega.
The transition follows the commencement of Vuhyah’s terminal leave ahead of his retirement, bringing to a close more than two decades of service at the helm of the financial institution.
Reflecting on his lengthy tenure, Vuhyah thanked the Sacco’s board and members for trusting him throughout his years of service, describing his journey as one marked by both challenges and achievements.
“I thank the board of this Sacco together with the members for believing in me all these years. It has been a journey of ups and downs, but we managed to reach where we are now, with Sh17 billion in our accounts and other assets,” Vuhyah said.
Vuhyah also challenged his successor to uphold the rules and regulations governing the Sacco sector while placing members’ interests at the centre of her administration.
“I ask the incoming CEO to adhere to the rules and regulations of the regulatory body and the Sacco for more benefits to the members. I know she is capable, but she has to consider teamwork for her to prosper,” he added.
Photo|Outgoing COE Peter Vuhyah and Incoming CEO Mary Awino.
Vuhyah’s exit marks a major leadership transition for IG Sacco after 26 years in which he played a central role in the institution’s operations and growth.
Taking over in an acting capacity is Awino, who previously served as the Sacco’s Finance Manager.Her appointment as Acting CEO became effective in August 2026 following Vuhyah’s commencement of terminal leave.
Awino brings experience in financial management, revenue growth, cost management, liquidity and compliance, placing her at the centre of the Sacco’s operations as the board begins the process of appointing a substantive CEO.
In her first remarks as Acting CEO, Awino paid tribute to her predecessor, acknowledging his contribution to the institution and pledging to build on the foundation he leaves behind.
“I take this opportunity to thank Dr Vuhyah for the work he has done in his 26 years. Indeed, he tried, and I assure everyone that I will work accordingly to ensure people benefit,” Awino said.
She further pledged to protect members’ savings and uphold transparency in the management of the Sacco.
“More importantly, I will follow his footsteps to ensure members’ funds are safe and make sure there is transparency in every step. I will work together with members as required by the law of the Sacco and the regulator,” Awino added.
The leadership change comes as IG Sacco positions itself for its next phase of growth, with Awino expected to ensure continuity while the board works towards appointing a substantive CEO.
Photo |Fomer IG SACCO CEO Peter Vuhyah (left) SACCO Chairperson Mr Nabiswa (centre) and NEW CEO Mary Awino (right)
The transition also places emphasis on teamwork, regulatory compliance, accountability and protection of members’ funds as the Sacco charts its future direction.For IG Sacco, the handover marks the end of Vuhyah’s 26-year chapter and the beginning of Awino’s stewardship, with members now watching closely as the new administration outlines its priorities and vision for the institution.