The national government has distributed relief food to the Muslim community in Taita Taveta County to support them as they observe the Holy month of Ramadhan.
The food, including 300 bags of rice and 246 bags of beans, will be distributed across mosques in the county to benefit less fortunate Muslim families.
Speaking in Voi Subcounty, Taita Taveta County Commissioner Josephine Onunga reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting the Muslim community during this sacred period.
She noted that the food was meant to help those in need, ensuring they have something to eat as they continue with their religious observances.
“The government has stepped in to support our Muslim brothers and sisters during Ramadhan. The relief food will be distributed through Muslim leaders to ensure that those who are less fortunate get something to eat as they continue with their fast,” Onunga said.
The county commissioner further stated that the food will be shared among the 50 mosques in Voi Subcounty and over 100 mosques across the county, reaching those in dire need.
Leaders lauded the government for the efforts, calling for more support in future.
Former Kaloleni MCA Omar Ahmed welcomed the relief efforts, acknowledging the government’s gesture of goodwill.
However, Ahmed pointed out that this year’s food allocation was lower compared to the previous year and called for an increase to cater to the growing Muslim population in the county.
“We appreciate the government’s efforts in sharing food with the Muslim community during Ramadhan, but this year’s allocation is lower than what we received last year. We urge the authorities to increase the supply so that more people can benefit,” he stated.
The former MCA said the Muslim community in Taita Taveta will continue supporting government initiatives that improve the welfare of citizens.
He added that as they observe Ramadhan, they are praying for the government and leaders at both national and county levels to ensure peace and stability in the country.
Taita Taveta County Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM) Chairperson Farida Mtengo also expressed gratitude for the relief food, noting that it was a significant boost, especially for women who struggle to provide for their families during Ramadhan.
“We, as women, are grateful for this support. This food will go a long way in ensuring that Muslim families, especially those who are less fortunate, have something to eat,” she said.
The food distribution exercise comes at a time when many families across the county are grappling with economic hardships, making it difficult for some to afford basic meals.
The relief supplies are expected to ease the burden on vulnerable households and allow them to observe their religious obligations with dignity.
By Arnold Linga Masila
