Born from a simple belief: that the stories of Vihiga deserve to be told with dignity, depth, and unwavering truth. We're not just reporting news—we're documenting the heartbeat of our community.
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Our Journey
From a WhatsApp group to the county's most trusted news source
2025
The Beginning
Started as a WhatsApp group sharing verified local updates among friends in Mbale. Realized the need for accurate, local journalism.
March
First Publication
Published our first investigative piece on local market infrastructure, gaining 3,000 readers in the first week.
February
Site Expansion
Brought on our first full-time reporters and launched the Crime & Safety beat to keep the community informed and safe.
2026 march
Going Digital
Launched our progressive web app, allowing offline reading and instant breaking news notifications.
The Values That Drive Us
Every story we tell is guided by these principles
Radical Accuracy
In an age of misinformation, we are obsessively careful. Every name double-checked, every statistic verified, every source vetted. Your trust is our only currency.
Community Over Clicks
We don't chase sensationalism. If a story doesn't serve the dignity or understanding of our community, we don't publish it. Period.
Accessible Truth
Complex issues explained clearly. Breaking news delivered swiftly. Every article written for the market vendor and the university professor alike.
Youth Amplification
Half of Vihiga is under 30. We dedicate significant coverage to the next generation's challenges, innovations, and victories.
Meet The Founders
The passionate individuals behind Vihiga Times
James Travis
Co-Founder & Editor-in-Chief
Storyteller by purpose, web developer by skill, Vihigan by identity.
I build and run Vihiga Times to share real stories from the ground—focused on local news, community voices, and everyday issues that matter to the people of Vihiga.
Lewis Odali'
Co-Founder & Strategy Director
As chief journalist and assistant co-founder of Vihiga Times, he is responsible for gathering stories directly from the community—ensuring every voice is heard and every story is real.
James Travis'
Co-Founder & Editor-in-Chief
The Journey Here
Built from curiosity. Driven by purpose. Rooted in Vihiga.
I’m a young creator with a background in web development, using my skills to build something bigger than myself—Vihiga Times. What started as an idea has grown into a platform that shares real stories from the ground. I focus on creating a space where local voices are heard, information is clear, and the community stays connected.
Why I Do This
"I saw that many local stories go untold or unnoticed. I believe Vihiga deserves its own voice—one that is simple, real, and accessible to everyone. This is not just a project, it’s a mission to inform, connect, and build something meaningful for the future."
Grace Achieng'
Co-Founder & Strategy Director
The Journey Here
From the ground. For the people. With purpose.
As a young journalist and assistant co-founder of Vihiga Times, he works at the heart of the community—collecting stories, engaging with people, and bringing out the reality of what’s happening across Vihiga. He ensures that every story comes from real experiences and real voices.
Why I Do This
I believes every community deserves to be heard. By gathering stories directly from the people, i helps shine a light on issues, moments, and voices that matter. My goal is to keep the community informed, aware, and connected through honest storytelling.
Community Voices
What our readers say about us
"Finally, news that understands the difference between Luanda and Mbale. Vihiga Times reports with the nuance our community deserves."
John M.
Mbale Town
"Their crime alerts have helped our neighborhood watch stay informed. It's not just news—it's a public service."
Sarah N.
Chavakali
"As a small business owner, the Hustle & Business section has connected me with opportunities I never knew existed."
Michael O.
Hamisi
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