By Julius Anyula Nakuti | Good Morning Kenya – Dagoretti North, Nairobi
In the heart of Dagoretti North, where crime, drugs and hopelessness have become a painful norm for many youths, one man is steadily changing the tide—Francis Obwora, popularly known as Franco.
Currently serving as the Dagoretti North Chairperson of the Nairobi County Liquor Board, Franco is a man on a mission. A trained martial artist with a black belt in Taekwondo, a former elite security operative, and a respected community mentor, Franco has proven that leadership does not always require a title.
Though born in Busia, Franco proudly calls Kawangware home—having grown up in its densely populated lanes, navigating poverty, peer pressure, and the ever-looming threat of crime. Today, he uses that lived experience to lead transformational work among at-risk youth.
“I’ve stayed here long enough to understand this area—its people, its challenges, and its politics. When the youth face problems—personal, legal, or communal—they come to me. I don’t take that lightly,” says Franco.
From Self-Defense to Community Upliftment
Franco’s journey into Taekwondo wasn’t driven by sport or fame—it was survival.
“We grew up in an environment where crime was rampant. I took up Taekwondo for self-defense. But through training, I gained inner calm and discipline. I realized I could use my skills not to fight—but to build,” he recalls.
Over the years, Franco has trained hundreds of young people in martial arts—not just to defend themselves, but to build character and purpose. Many have gone on to become instructors, athletes, and role models in their own right.
His discipline and professionalism have opened doors for him to work as a security detail for some of Kenya’s most prominent leaders, including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, former Governor Mike Sonko, former Nairobi Speaker and MP Dagoretti North Hon Beatrice Elachi, Hon. Tim Wanyonyi, and current Governor Johnson Sakaja.
“Working with dignitaries requires extreme discipline, situational awareness, and integrity. I’m grateful for the lessons and trust those roles gave me,” says Franco.
A Champion for the Youth of Dagoretti North
With unemployment, drug addiction, and crime wreaking havoc among the youth, Franco chose not to stand aside. Instead, he’s taken a proactive role in social reintegration.
“The high rates of teen pregnancy, school dropouts, and substance abuse break my heart. I couldn’t sit back. I began speaking to the youth, mentoring them, and thanks to the networks I’ve built, I’ve helped many secure jobs, start businesses, or return to school and TVETs,” he shares.
Through partnerships with Governor Sakaja and Hon. Elachi, Franco has helped launch boda boda ventures, car washes, and small businesses—offering real hope to many in Dagoretti North.
His commitment did not go unnoticed. Governor Sakaja appointed him as Liquor Board Chairperson for Dagoretti North, recognizing his unique ability to engage youth, mediate conflicts, and bring calm to the streets.
Promoting Peace Beyond Politics
Franco is also a vocal champion for peace and reconciliation. He has been leading peace campaigns across Dagoretti North, working to avert a repeat of the post-election violence witnessed in 2013 and 2017.
“Violence never solves anything. We must talk to our people, create awareness, and handle our differences peacefully. I’m committed to that cause,” says Obwora.
Eyes on 2027: A Leadership Call
As political winds begin to stir ahead of the 2027 General Elections, Franco is listening to the people of Kabiro Ward, who have urged him to run for the MCA seat.
“I’m a proud resident of Kabiro. The people want a new kind of leadership—one of action, not promises. I’ve heard them. In 2027, I will present myself for the position of Member of County Assembly,” he declares.
If elected, Franco promises to focus on infrastructure, education, and economic empowerment, particularly targeting women and youth.
But even without a seat in office, Franco is already shaping lives and futures—living proof that you don’t need a title to serve humanity.
#FrancoTheTransformer | #YouthChampion | #PeaceBuilder
Story by Julius Anyula Nakuti, Political Affairs Reporter – Good Morning Kenya
