Ouagadougou:Marakwet West Elgeyo Marakwet Woman Representative Caroline Ng’elechei has expanded her community empowerment program to Marakwet West Sub-County. The initiative includes the distribution of agricultural inputs, livestock, and equipment to bolster livelihoods and foster community development.
According to Kenya News Agency, the program was launched with the presence of Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who serves as the patron of the Onesimus Kipchumba Murkomen (OKM) Foundation. This foundation, in partnership with Ng’elechei, has ensured that other sub-counties in Elgeyo Marakwet received their empowerment items prior to the recent distribution in Marakwet West.
The distribution began in Kamoi, Sengwer Ward, on Friday, October 30. Beneficiaries received pre-selected items during public participation, including a 100-seater tent, chairs, and a public address system for each sub-location in Sengwer Ward. Residents of Lelan Ward were provided with potato seeds, tents, chairs, public address systems, and water tanks. Meanwhile, Moiben/Kuserwo Ward received certified seeds, tents, breeding stock, chicks, sheep, and coffee seedlings, and Cherangany-Chebororwa Ward benefited from tents, chairs, public address systems, 5,000-litre water tanks, and breeding stock.
Ng’elechei emphasized the initiative’s aim to bring development closer to residents by addressing community priorities and creating economic opportunities, particularly for women and youth. She stated, “Commitment to transforming lives goes beyond promises. By taking empowerment initiatives directly to the sub-location level, we are creating opportunities for ordinary citizens to improve their livelihoods, grow their economic potential, and actively participate in community development.”
Cabinet Secretary Murkomen noted that such initiatives could attract further support, highlighting the program’s role in complementing government investments in infrastructure and public services. He stated, “Showing initiative and putting in the work attracts support,” underscoring the importance of supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, empowering local communities, and promoting inclusive development to create jobs and improve livelihoods.
The program specifically targets women and youth groups, providing resources designed to support income-generating activities, enhance agricultural production, and create sustainable livelihood opportunities.
