The government has been urged to urgently distribute food to residents in parts of the North Rift region affected by prolonged banditry, amid fears of looming starvation.
Most residents have recently returned to their homes following the restoration of relative calm after the ongoing joint security operation in the region. However, leaders warn that the returnees are facing severe food shortages.
Speaking in the area, Kerio Valley Development Authority Managing Director Reuben Chepsongol said many families are struggling to meet basic needs.
“The residents are staring at possible starvation. They have returned home but they have nothing to eat,” Chepsongol said.
He noted that the lack of food has disrupted learning activities, as some school-going children are being forced to search for food instead of attending classes.
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“Some learners are missing school because they have to help their families look for food. This is affecting education in a very serious way,” he added.
Chepsongol commended residents for returning to their homes after a long period of displacement, saying the time spent away had left many households economically weakened.
“These people have been away from their homes for a long time, and that has kept them poor. Returning is a positive step, but they now need support,” he said.
In addition to food aid, Chepsongol called on the government to supply residents with construction materials, noting that many houses were destroyed by bandits after families fled the area.
“Homes were burnt and destroyed. Without building materials, it will be difficult for families to fully resettle,” he said.
Prolonged banditry has severely hampered learning and development activities in the region. The government is currently conducting a joint security operation aimed at restoring lasting peace and stability in the North Rift.
By Kimutai Langat
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