Businessman donates relief food to flood victims in Homa Bay

A resident of Chwowe Village, in Karachuonyo constituency, which has been affected by floods receives relief food and non-food items on April 2, 2020. The relief food was given by businessman Jared Kiasa. [James Omoro, Standard]

More than 500 families affected by floods in Homa Bay county have received relief food from a well-wisher.

 Residents of Wang' Chieng' and Kibiri wards in Karachuonyo constituency and those from South Kabuoch, North Kabuoch, Kanyikela and Kanyadoto wards in Ndhiwa constituency received foodstuff donated by Nairobi businessman Jared Kiasa. 

The items included maize flour, sugar, salt, cooking fat and bar soap.

 Mr Kiasa distributed the items through a youth-based organisation, Homa Bay County Youth for Change Movement.

 The organisation’s officials led by chairman Ely Oyier, coordinator Hezron Orata, his deputy Hellen Ayugi and organising secretary Reegan Ochieng’ traversed the county yesterday distributing the items to the victims.

 Speaking during the distribution exercise at Chwowe beach in Karachuonyo constituency, Oyier said their main objective was to reduce suffering among those who have been affected by the flood.

 "Jared sent us after realising that many families are living in desperation due to the floods. To make the matter worse, coronavirus prevention restrictions have reduced food supply in various parts of Homa Bay hence people are suffering," said Oyier.

 Orata challenged elected leaders in the county to intervene and assist flood victims, saying the number of victims is rising as the rains continue to pound the area.

 "We expected a few people but what we are witnessing on the ground different, the floods have affected many families. Let elected leaders come on board and assist," Orata said.

 Ayugi expressed concerns over the situation, saying it has affected many women.

 "Many women are undergoing difficulties because they seek asylum in their relatives' home. They need more help," Ms Ayugi said.

 Those who benefited hailed the initiative saying it has alleviated their sufferings.

 "My home is no longer accessible. The situation has forced me to seek accommodation in my relatives' homes with my entire family. I thank Kiasa for this intervention," said Pamela Atieno, resident of Chwowe village in Karachuonyo constituency.