By Mike Owour

Government Spokesman Alfred Mutua may have had good intentions in urging anybody who is starving to send a mobile phone text message (SMS) to number 2888. But, notes our reader, Mr Eliud Akanga, it sounds insensitive and could be ineffective.

"He said those who were in need of food aid may send an SMS and help would come their way. But here is food for thought: Would starving people in drought hit remote villages afford phones when they don’t have basic needs?" wonders Akanga.

And, he adds, what is the cost of sending an SMS to 2888, which appears to be a premium rate number (usually charged at Sh10)? Akanga wants the Government to "take full responsibility" by distributing food to all starving Kenyans.

However, PointBlank notes that in his briefing last week, Dr Mutua also emphasised the role of the Provincial Administration in ensuring nobody starves. This, we think, puts to the test the idea of bringing services closer to the people by creating more administrative units. It may eventually be more effective than the distress SMS number.