Elgeyo Marakwet Woman Representative Caroline Ng’elechei has extended her countywide community empowerment programme to Marakwet West Sub-County, distributing agricultural inputs, livestock and equipment to support livelihoods and community development.

Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who is the patron of the Onesimus Kipchumba Murkomen (OKM) Foundation, presided over the programme as chief guest.

The exercise kicked off in Kamoi, Sengwer Ward, on Friday 30th October where beneficiaries received items they had selected earlier during public participation.

In Sengwer Ward, each sub-location received a 100-seater tent, chairs and a public address system.

Residents of Lelan Ward received potato seeds, tents, chairs, public address systems and water tanks, while those in Moiben/Kuserwo Ward received certified seeds, tents, breeding stock, chicks, sheep and coffee seedlings.

In Cherangany-Chebororwa Ward, the package included tents, chairs, public address systems, 5,000-litre water tanks and breeding stock.

Ng’elechei said the initiative was aimed at taking development closer to residents by supporting community priorities and creating economic opportunities, particularly for women and youth.

“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,” she said.

Murkomen said initiatives demonstrating commitment to improving people’s lives could attract support, noting that community empowerment complemented government investments in infrastructure and public services.

“Showing initiative and putting in the work attracts support,” he said.

He added that supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, empowering local communities and promoting inclusive development were important in creating jobs and improving livelihoods.

The programme targets women and youth groups with resources intended to support income-generating activities, strengthen agricultural production and create sustainable livelihood opportunities.

By Rennish Okong’o