Marsabit, Kenya| In a decisive effort to combat food insecurity, Marsabit Governor Mohamud Ali has officially launched a large-scale food distribution program aimed at supporting 20,000 vulnerable households across the county’s 20 wards.
The initiative, which is part of Marsabit County’s Drought Response Program, seeks to alleviate hunger among those hardest hit by persistent food shortages.
Additionally, in observance of the holy month of Ramadhan, 25,000 Muslim residents, including prisoners, will receive specialized food assistance to ensure they can partake in fasting and religious observances with dignity.
Vulnerable groups such as individuals living with HIV/AIDS have also been prioritized in the distribution effort.
A Multi-Pronged Distribution Strategy
During the launch, Governor Ali outlined a structured distribution plan designed to ensure efficient and equitable food access across the county.
The allocations include:
General Food Distribution (Per Ward) – 20,000 Households
Each of the 20 wards in Marsabit County will receive essential food supplies to support 1,000 households per ward.
The distribution includes 500 bags of rice, each weighing 25kg, and 250 bags of beans, each weighing 5kg.
This initiative aims to provide relief to families struggling with food insecurity amid ongoing drought conditions.
Special Assistance for 300 Vulnerable Households (Including Persons Living with HIV/AIDS)
To cater to the needs of particularly vulnerable groups, 300 households, including individuals living with HIV/AIDS, will receive additional support.
This package includes 120 bags of rice and 25 cartons of cooking oil, with each carton containing 12 one-liter containers.
Ramadhan Food Distribution for Muslim Communities (Countywide) – 25,000 Beneficiaries
In observance of Ramadhan, the county government has set aside food aid specifically for 25,000 Muslim residents across Marsabit.
The distribution will include 5,000 bags of rice, each weighing 10kg, and 2,000 bags of beans, each weighing 5kg.
This assistance ensures that fasting families have sufficient food during the holy month.
Prisoner Support During Ramadhan As part of the county’s inclusive approach, incarcerated individuals will also receive food support during Ramadhan.
The allocation for prisoners includes 50 bags of rice, each weighing 25kg, ensuring they have adequate nutrition during this sacred period.
Governor Ali emphasized that the initiative reflects the county government’s commitment to food security and social welfare, ensuring that no resident is left behind, particularly during periods of heightened need.
A Call for Peace and Unity During Iftar Reception
Later in the evening, Governor Ali hosted an Iftar dinner at his residence, bringing together members of the Muslim Ummah of Marsabit.
Addressing the gathering, he underscored the significance of peace and reconciliation, particularly in a county that has faced its share of intercommunal tensions.
”We have witnessed the devastating effects of conflict, but we have also experienced the blessings of sulh (reconciliation) and peaceful coexistence. In the spirit of Ramadhan—a month of rahma (mercy), barakah (blessings), and maghfirah (forgiveness)—I urge all of us to embrace peace, to preach it, uphold it, and live by it,” he said.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to unity, social cohesion, and the well-being of all residents, expressing hope that the holy month would inspire renewed efforts toward harmony in Marsabit County.
As food aid efforts get underway, the county government remains focused on long-term solutions to food insecurity, including sustainable agricultural initiatives and enhanced resilience programs for vulnerable communities.
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