Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim, Tuesday, led the county business community, corporate institutions and farmers in a food, cash, and kind donation exercise towards support for hunger-stricken residents of Turkana County.
Chelilim launched the ‘Uasin Gishu Save a Life Initiative’ over three weeks ago following calls from President William Ruto for Kenyans to help those facing starvation.
Speaking at the event held in Eldoret town, the county boss singled out members of the Wareng Power House who contributed to the initiative through social media.
“I am deeply touched by this drive borne out of compassionate members of Wareng’ Power House ( a social media forum) who came together to extend their hands and hearts to their fellow countrymen in distress,” Chelilim said.
While thanking the Eldoret business community who also joined in the donation drive, the county boss promised to ensure the security of their premises in the wake of recent riots in Eldoret town.
He said his administration is working with security agencies to ensure they pursue perpetrators and provide lasting solutions.
Business opportunities
Speaking on behalf of the business community, Willy Kenei, the Uasin Gishu Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) chairperson said his membership will continue working with the county in development programs.
Kenei who also doubles up as the chairman of the ‘Save a Life Initiaitiative’ pointed out that Chelilim’s administration is determined to earn Eldoret’s City status – a move that will create more business opportunities for existing and new entrepreneurs.
He further revealed that so far, approximately Ksh6.5 million worth of maize (223 bags), maize flour, beans, 258 bags of 50 kilograms of rice, cooking oil, sugar, food supplements and assorted clothes has been realized.
Food and non-food items collected through the initiative will be sent to Turkana County to help locals facing hunger.
Uasin Gishu County Executives Dr Abraham Serem ( Environment), Elijah Kosgei (Public Service Management) and Edward Sawe ( Agriculture) were also present.
Some of the members of the business community that have supported the initiative include the Eldoret Hindu Council, Buffalo Millers, New Yako Supermarkets, Reale Group of Hospitals, and Eldobase Pharmaceuticals amongst others.
