Pastor James Ng’ang’a criticised for comments seen as promoting stigma in Homabay and Nyanza.
He claimed his hotel business is struggling because he refuses to sell alcohol, marijuana, and condoms.
Remarks about buying condoms “marking newcomers” drew backlash from health workers and activists.
Critics say religious leaders should support HIV prevention efforts, not mock them.
Supporters defend him, saying his style has always been bold and unapologetic.
Ng’ang’a’s Comments Ignite Heated Debate
Pastor James Ng’ang’a of Neno Evangelism Centre has found himself at the centre of fresh controversy after making remarks that many believe reinforce harmful stigma in regions with high HIV prevalence, such as Homabay and the wider Nyanza area.
Speaking about his hotel business, the preacher said it was performing poorly because he chose not to sell items like alcohol, marijuana, or condoms. His comments quickly drew criticism from health advocates, who argued that condoms are an essential tool in HIV prevention.
Controversial Claim About Buying Condoms in Homabay and Nyanza
Pastor Ng’ang’a also suggested that in areas such as Homabay and Nyanza, people assume you are unfamiliar with the region if you are seen buying condoms. The statement sparked mixed reactions, with some saying he was highlighting a real social problem, while others felt he was mocking communities already battling high HIV rates.
Local health workers note that condom-related stigma remains a challenge in some parts of Nyanza, discouraging people from openly seeking protection. This has long been a concern for county officials, especially during periods of condom shortages.
Health Experts Call for Responsible Messaging
With Homabay County consistently recording high HIV prevalence, public health activists say leaders—especially influential religious figures—should encourage safe practices rather than ridicule condom use.
They argue that such comments could undermine ongoing efforts to promote responsible sexual health and community education.
A History of Controversial Statements
Pastor Ng’ang’a is no stranger to headlines. His dramatic preaching style and bold statements frequently go viral, attracting both criticism and praise. Supporters defend him as a fearless preacher who speaks his mind, while critics say some of his remarks risk reversing progress made in sensitive public health campaigns.
Pastor James Ng’ang’a criticised for comments seen as promoting stigma in Homabay and Nyanza. He claimed his hotel business is struggling because he refuses to sell alcohol, marijuana, and condoms.
Pastor James Ng’ang’a of Neno Evangelism Centre has found himself at the centre of fresh controversy after making remarks that many believe reinforce harmful stigma in regions with high HIV prevalence, such as Homabay and the wider Nyanza area.
Speaking about his hotel business, the preacher said it was performing poorly because he chose not to sell items like alcohol, marijuana, or condoms. His comments quickly drew criticism from health advocates, who argued that condoms are an essential tool in HIV prevention.
Pastor Ng’ang’a also suggested that in areas such as Homabay and Nyanza, people assume you are unfamiliar with the region if you are seen buying condoms. The statement sparked mixed reactions, with some saying he was highlighting a real social problem, while others felt he was mocking communities already battling high HIV rates.
Local health workers note that condom-related stigma remains a challenge in some parts of Nyanza, discouraging people from openly seeking protection. This has long been a concern for county officials, especially during periods of condom shortages.
With Homabay County consistently recording high HIV prevalence, public health activists say leaders, especially influential religious figures, should encourage safe practices rather than ridicule condom use.
They argue that such comments could undermine ongoing efforts to promote responsible sexual health and community education.
Pastor Ng’ang’a is no stranger to headlines. His dramatic preaching style and bold statements frequently go viral, attracting both criticism and praise. Supporters defend him as a fearless preacher who speaks his mind, while critics say some of his remarks risk reversing progress made in sensitive public health campaigns.
