In its quest to enhance living conditions, Kakamega County in Kenya announced intentions to build houses for over 360 vulnerable families. Under the Shelter Improvement Program, six families from each of the 12 wards will benefit from the project during the current fiscal year.

During the inauguration of the Shelter Improvement Program at Mukhonje primary grounds in Isukha West ward in Shinyalu, the County’s governor gave his remark.

The Governor of Kakamega County, Fernandes Barasa revealed that the project focuses on having a ripple impact on the academic performance of students and the economic status of the residents.

According to the governor, “We are one community and it is important that we show a sense of concern and care so that families live in a conducive environment for their social and psychological development.” he retold that the county government is dedicated to constructing 360 houses every year.

Barasa said “Families that benefit from the initiative are already certified by my administration as ‘needy’. Hence, I direct officers involved to give priority to members of these families in the next cohort of Kazi Mashinani.”

The needy families were guaranteed by Shinyalu’s Member of Parliament, Fred Ikana that he would support them in making sure their living conditions improved. “We will also provide a sustainable feeding program, especially in this final term so that students do not sit exams on empty stomachs,” he said.

Mophat Mandela, the official in charge of Social Services, Sports, Youth, Gender and Culture said that the new houses for the beneficiaries would have a water harvesting device. “Today we hand over 360 beneficiaries from all parts of the county, 12 constituencies, and 60 wards. We decided to install water sources so that the residents do not suffer,” he said.