The Sengwer community has thanked President William Ruto for establishing a unit to address the concerns of minority and marginalised groups in Kenya.
Dickson Rotich, the Spokesperson of the Sengwer community in Kenya, notes that since the establishment of this unit, some of the challenges faced by the Sengwer community have been addressed.
Rotich expressed appreciation to President Ruto for establishing the unit at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi that specifically focuses on the affairs of minority and marginalised groups in the country.
‘‘One of the outcomes of recognition of the Sengwer community in Kenya is the creation of an administrative unit called Siyoi Division in West Pokot County, which has been gazetted and will facilitate the delivery of government services to the community once fully operationalised,’’ Rotich noted.
He highlighted the significance of the official recognition of the Sengwer community as a tribe in Kenya, especially considering the history of discrimination and marginalisation they have faced.
Rotich further elaborated that the Sengwer community is part of the Kalenjin tribe, with members residing in various parts of the nation and neighbouring countries.
He said that unlike other Kalenjin Community sub-tribes like Nandi, Keiyo, Marakwet, Kipsigis, Tugen, and Sabaot that have tribal codes, the community has not been given one and urged the government to give them the same.
‘‘The Sengwer community should be issued with a tribal code that designates them as a distinct tribe in Kenya,’’ he stressed.
Additionally, Rotich urged other leaders to emulate President Ruto’s actions and ensure that all communities are included in matters of leadership and national development, as well as have equal access to employment opportunities.
The development record of West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin, according to him, is highly commendable and speaks volumes.
He observed that the governor’s achievements in healthcare development have significantly enhanced the provision of health services to the local residents.
By Anthony Melly
