We report an approach for guiding and manipulating light on sub-wavelength scales using active nanowire waveguides and devices. Quantitative studies of cadmium sulfide (CdS) nanowire structures show that light propagation takes place with only moderate losses through sharp and even acute angle bends. In addition, measurements demonstrate that efficient injection into and modulation of light through nanowire waveguides are achievable in active devices. The ability to inject, guide, and manipulate light on a sub-wavelength scale using nanowire components that can be assembled into integrated structures represents a promising pathway towards integrated nanoscale photonic systems.