The government through the Ministry of Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs), National Drought Management Authority (NDMA) and the Special Programmes has launched the fourth phase of relief food distribution in Nyandarua County.
During the flagging off of the relief food distribution at Ndaragwa DCC’s office, the government expressed its commitment to ensuring that hunger-stricken families are assisted with relief food in an effort to ensure that no one succumbs due to lack of food.
The Programme Coordinator in the Ministry of ASALs Maria Cherono, Nyandarua Women Representative Faith Gitau, and Nyandarua North Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Walter Ngaira among other government officials said the food aid would come in handy in helping those affected to overcome the situation.
Ms. Cherono and the Women Representative observed that over 4.3 million households were still facing starvation in the country but the government will ensure they are assisted.
“We are here to launch the fourth phase of relief food distribution. Over 713,932 households have already been assisted with the relief food in the last three phases, and more are set to receive the same support,” she said.
“National steering committee on drought resistance has also given food hampers to 932 residents within Ndaragwa Ward and another 932 households in Leshau Pondo in Nyandarua,” said Ms Cherono.
On her part, Ms Gitau lamented that the region rarely depends on relief food since the region is an agriculturally-rich County.
However, due to prolonged drought and rain failure, most families were affected but observed that there is a sigh of relief as heavy rains continue to pound in most areas.
Mr. Ngaira appreciated the government’s effort in supporting Ndaragwa residents who have been affected by drought since 2021.
“We thank the Deputy President through the National Steering Committee on drought response for remembering our people. The priority on food distribution is given to the elderly above 70 years and orphans.
“We have received 300 bags of rice and 260 bags of beans. Our target is 7,500 households within Ndaragwa Sub County,” said DCC.
NDMA Nyeri office has overseen the food distribution. Kiriogo, Oruko, Nyonjoro, Mbuyu, Ndogino, Shauri Moyo and Baari Sub Locations received the relief food.
