Anti-poverty commission demands more cash

By WINSLEY MASESE

Poverty Eradication Commission chair John Koech says the Sh200 million provided in this financial year is not enough.

"Poverty is everywhere and to address the situation, the commission needs Sh2 billion. This way, each constituency will get about Sh10 million to help bring about meaningful development," he said.

Speaking in Kisumu Rural constituency when he handed cheques to 40 self-help groups, Koech said 42 constituencies had benefited from the funds.

"Make meaningful use of it (the money) by initiating income-generating activities," he said.

He said the fund was set aside to help the poor who cannot access loans from banks at high interest rates.

Koech urged residents of Nyanza to harness the potential in the region to improve their living conditions.

"With the expansion of the Kisumu International Airport, you can venture into horticulture," he said.

Medical Services Minister Anyang’ Nyong’o said: "Do not expect the Government to initiate income generating activities for you. What it will do to you is to facilitate your economic activities by developing the infrastructure."

Prof Nyong’o urged the residents not to depend on freebies and instead focus on creating wealth.