Lodwar- July 10, 2025 (Public Communication and Media Relations)
Over 1,300 residents from 250 households in Kanamkemer Ward, Turkana Central have benefitted from a food distribution exercise by the County and National Governments in collaboration with Kenya Mennonite Church.
The food distribution was flagged off by Deputy Governor Dr John Erus alongside County Commissioner Julius Kavita at Kanamkemer and senior county government officials.
Speaking at the event, Dr Erus said that the intervention was part of the broader efforts by the government and partners to cushion communities against drought led vulnerabilities.
DG Erus linked the current food crisis to climate change manifesting as drought and flash floods in quick succession in Turkana. He assured the residents that the County Government is working closely with partners to ensure relief and build resilience of communities.
“Today, the members of the Kenya Mennonite church (KMC) and development agency Mennonite Central Committe (MCC) have stood with us. The county Government welcomes more organizations willing to support our communities,” DG Erus said.
Additionally, the DG appealed to the public to take advantage of the health campaigns currently being conducted across the county to improve their health outcomes.
“We are also conducting malaria prevention drug administration for children under-five years, Measles-Rubella and Typhoid Conjugate vaccination campaign, and the Social Health Authority rapid registration exercise. I encourage you all to participate,” he added.
The County Commissioner urged the beneficiaries to ensure the children are the first priority for their nourishment and development in schools and at home.
“Responsible parenting demands that we ensure our children are well fed and taken to school to secure their future. I have directed all chiefs and their assistants to encourage communities to take their children to school,” Julius Kavita said.
He also emphasised that the government plans to roll out new round of food distribution exercise in the coming days following the commencement of the new financial year.
The Manager in charge of the food distribution exercise, Evans Oginga highlighted this exercise considered family size to ensure equity in the distribution of; 10 kilograms of maize, six kilograms of beans, cooking oil and salt for each household.
Mary Esinyen, a beneficiary stated that now that her family meals are taken care of, she is committed to take part in the ongoing public health interventions as guided by the DG.
CECM of Public Service, Administration and Disaster Management Patrick Lokaimoe, Turkana Central DCC Thomas Siele and leadership of the Kenya Mennonite Church were present.
