Nyanza leaders seek Uhuru's support for county growth

Mama Sarah Obama (seated, left) is shown how an E-Reader device works by World Reader Foundation President David Rushurm who donated the gadgets to Mama Sarah Obama Community Library in Kogelo on on April 25, 2015. Kenya Literature Bureau, too, donated textbooks.
NELCON ODHIAMBO |

What you need to know:

  • Leaders said they recognise and appreciate efforts of President Uhuru Kenyatta in uniting Kenyans for a common purpose of developing the country.
  • First Lady Margaret Kenyatta urged all county governments to register as well as map out the requirements of all needy cases in their jurisdiction to ensure the initiatives of helping them succeed.

Political leaders in Nyanza region have asked President Uhuru Kenyatta to support them in order to develop their regions.

The leaders who included Homa Bay Governor Cyprian Awiti, Siaya Deputy Governor Ouma Onyango and Alego-Usonga MP Washington Omondi Thursday pledged to work closely with the Jubilee Government in achieving its goals.

Speaking at a function to distribute shoes to children that was presided over by First Lady Margaret Kenyatta and Mama Sarah Obama, they said they recognise and appreciate efforts of President Uhuru Kenyatta in uniting Kenyans for a common purpose of developing the country.

“Tell him [President Kenyatta] Nyanza requires him, we want to work with him so as to make a difference in our people lives. Elections are over, now it is development time,” said Mr Awiti.

Mr Awiti assured that the region would fully work and cooperate with the Jubilee Government to ensure Kenyans achieve their aspirations.

“We know we have gotten a very suitable hardworking President. We would like to see him come here preferably before the end of this year so as to prove to doubting Thomas and affirm our commitment to work with him.”

Speaking when she flagged off the inaugural Sowo-Kogelo Marathon in Nyangoma K’Ogelo Primary School, Siaya County, the First Lady said it is important that every child be given a fair chance to succeed in life by helping them to have an education.

VULNERABLE CHILDREN

The 15-kilometre marathon, the brainchild of Mama Sarah Obama, is to raise funds to support education of 2000 orphans and other vulnerable children who have been affected by HIV/AIDS in the area.
The marathon was also being used to sensitise the public on the dangers of HIV/AIDS.

The First Lady lauded Mama Sara Obama Foundation (MSOF) in partnership with Safeguard Orphans and Widows Organisation (SOWO) for their initiatives in helping to give solutions to problems facing the needy.

She therefore urged all county governments to register as well as map out the requirements of all needy cases in their jurisdiction to ensure the initiatives of helping them succeed.

The First Lady also called on the youth to strive to excel in sports because this will not only help them earn a decent living but also enable them lead health lives.

“But to do well in sports or to succeed in life, it takes self-discipline and dedication in any undertaking. Likewise, I must caution the youth to avoid drugs. Drugs will only destroy you!” she said.

At the function the First Lady donated Ksh350,000 towards the winners of the marathon.