The West Pokot governor Simon Kachapin has launched a humanitarian relief food distribution to combat food insecurity caused by crop failure, climate change, floods, and landslides. Speaking during the launch at Fire station offices' compound in Kapenguria town, governor Kachapin disclosed the launch of distribution of ten tonnes of fortified porridge flour for Early Childhood Development (ECDE) learners, 2350 chairs, 30 tables, and emergency maize and beans for affected wards of suam, Lower Riwo,Tapach, and Chepareria. The governor said over 7400 children in 1194 ECDE centers across the county are set to benefit from fortified porridge, which aims to reduce malnutrition and improve outcomes. He said the distribution of food and equipment is a sustained effort, not just for one term, and called for emphasis on accountability and transparency during the distribution process to the beneficiaries. Governor Kachapin disclosed that the County Government has put strategies to support farmers affected by climate change, including starting irrigation projects to enable farming in arid regions of the county. He said the relief food is also being provided to displaced persons, police reservists at border areas, and vulnerable families needing shelter improvements. He said his administration aims to fulfill campaign promises related to education, health, and infrastructure development and would soon distribute bursary funds and iron sheets to vulnerable families. The county boss said his administration also emphasizes on collaboration, good governance, and completion of all ongoing development projects across the county. In his remarks, West Pokot Deputy governor Robert Komolle highlighted the county government's commitment to supporting early childhood education and addressing the challenges faced by residents in arid and semi-arid parts of the county. He noted that the distribution of fortified porridge will help increase enrollment, improve transition and retention rates and enhance nutrition for early childhood learners. County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Education Rebecca Kide expressed gratitude for the distribution of fortified porridge flour, emphasizing that it will provide early childhood learners with nutrients that they require for health growth. She thanked the governor for the initiative, noting that strengthening the foundation of children in school is crucial for their future success. Kide also highlighted the importance of providing a good learning environment for children and thanked the County Assembly members for their teamwork in education and development matters. Nominated MCA Elijah Kaseuseu stated that the relief food and porridge flour distribution will support cognitive development among early education learners. He also appreciated the governor for improving employment conditions for ECDE teachers through better pay and promotion opportunities.
This, he added was a proof that the County boss recognized their vital role in child development.
Public Service Management, ICT, and Devolved Unit County Executive Committee Member (CECM) Martin Lotee announced that relief food would be distributed within two days to the worst affected wards.
By Anthony Melly
