Mercy Train receives Sh1 million boost
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By Peter Orengo The Standard Group’s ‘Tuungane Tuokoe Maisha’ campaign against hunger has received a boost of Sh1 million. Yesterday, NIC Bank, Lion of Kenya Insurance and Mitchell Cotts Freight Kenya, all operating under the First Chartered Group banner contributed Sh500,000 for NIC and Sh250,000 each for the rest to help Kenyans affected by hunger. Standard Group Deputy Chairman and Strategy Advisor Paul Melly, who received the donation on behalf of partners in the Mercy Train initiative, said the company was humbled by the response to the initiative. "As a country we have been forced to deal with many challenges which Kenyans responded to diligently," said Mr Melly. He urged the Government to put in place measures to curb hunger like building of dams. Appealing for more donations to the Mercy Train, Melly said it was shameful for citizens to die of hunger. Lion Insurance Managing Director John Kimeu said famine would have been avoided if politicians had concentrated on development projects instead of rhetoric. "We have the resources and academicians who are well equipped to ensure the country becomes self-sufficient in food. Politicians should provide support instead of fighting for positions," said Mr Kimeu. Self-reliance He said future focus should shift from donations for the hungry to funding projects that would ensure self-reliance in food production. NIC Bank Managing Director James Macharia praised the Mercy Train initiative saying it was unique. "Through this initiative, Kenyans now know that some areas are not the same as others. We are happy to note that the Mercy Train trucks will distribute food to Turkana, Mandera, Baringo Marsabit, among other areas," said Mr Macharia. Mitchell Cotts Freight Business Development Manager Edwin Gitonga urged more Kenyans to contribute to the vulnerable. "Social responsibilities by all corporations should be part of company focus, especially now when we face economic problems," said the managing director.