President Uhuru Kenyatta this week lauded the efforts of
three women who volunteered to prepare meals for police officers manning a
checkpoint in Tala.
The three; Priscilla Kioko, Rebecca Mutua and Faith Mailu
were given The Presidential Order of Service, Uzalendo Award, due to their
selflessness during this difficult time.
During his Madaraka day speech, the President said the
country was indebted to all those who engaged in similar acts of kindness in
these unusual times.
“The country is also indebted to the thousands of Kenyans
who provided meals for our Law Enforcement manning checkpoints, and our artists
who raised awareness of the virus through their music and artwork.
“We also recognize and commend all those who have selflessly
and generously supported the Coronavirus Response Emergency Fund; from the
contribution of Ksh. 500 made by 11-Year-Old Zawadi Mutua, to the Ksh. 300
million personal contribution by Dr. James Mwangi and family,” he said.
The story of the three women led by Priscilla was widely
shared on social media, catching the attention of Interior CS Fred Matiang’i who
paid them an impromptu visit last month.
“Had the pleasure to meet the gracious ladies who are
voluntarily supporting our officers at the Tala checkpoint. On behalf of
President Uhuru Kenyatta and the Government, I thank them.
“They exemplify Kenya's spirit and the much-needed synergy
between citizens and security organs,” said the CS.
On their part, the women said they were touched by the
efforts of the officers and empathized with their situation since they worked
for long hours and there were no shops near the roadblock.