Civil society groups have launched a relief food drive in aid of Kenyans affected by drought in Wajir County.
The Peace Mission Volunteers in collaboration with Bunge La Mwananchi, told a press conference at a Nairobi Hotel during the launch of the initiative dubbed ‘Nairobi for Wajir Food Relief Campaign’ that the move was to support vulnerable families in the drought stricken County.
Speaking at the launch, Project Manager, Mwangaza Mashinani, Judy Magu, said groups were touched by the pain and suffering of Kenyans in Wajir due to food shortage and that is why they partnered with Bunge La Mwananchi and other support organizations to come up with the initiative.
Magu encouraged all Kenyans to support this initiative despite their cultural backgrounds, religious differences and political inclinations, so that the initiative can become a success.
“I would like to appeal to all Kenyans to join hands and support this initiative, because it is not just for the people of Nairobi, but all of us to ensure that this project goes through,” she said.
Bunge La Mwananchi speaker, Isaac Omollo, said many several Kenyans beyond Wajir County were affected by drought and said plans were underway, when resources were available, to extend the good gesture elsewhere, including Taita Taveta County where similar cases were reported.
The Country, especially the ASAL areas have experienced severe drought where many Kenyans go without food and water and this is why Bunge La Mwananchi and Mwangaza Mashinani, have come up with this initiative to support our fellow citizens with foodstuffs and other humanitarian supplies” he said.
The Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Devolution, Bunge La Mwananchi, Hezron Mwalugu, noted that they were targeting to collect at least 100 tons of relief supplies, but currently have managed to collect only two tons and well-wishers to chip in and help realize the goal.
The distribution of foodstuff in Wajir is scheduled to take place on 15 January 2022.
By Oscar Oganga and Stacey Barasa
