Aged individuals from Nyamira County have reasons to smile after Governor John Nyagarama promised to have them paid every month for sustainability.
Speaking during Jamuhuri day celebrations at Nyamira town on Friday, the county boss reiterated his commitments to have all aged people benefit from the devolved governance by initiating a program by law that will see them receive at least Sh2000 monthly for upkeep.
“Old folks play an integral part of development in our society by giving us knowledge gained through their experiences. I will facilitate their monthly payment by law so that they also feel the effects of devolution,” he said.
Nyagarama urged County Executive for Youths and Culture Peter Omwanza to liaise with Members of County Assembly to ensure the provision is speedily approved by assembly in compliance with the law.
“I want our ministry for Youth, Culture and Social activities to ensure a bill to appreciate the same is brought to the assembly. Am quite sure our MCAs are very cooperative and am sure of their support as they have always done,” he said.
He said the kitty will be disbursed to all 20 wards and will be managed by a special committee that is non-partisan.
“If passed, area residents will be expected to elect a committee constituting of technocrats to run it like the CDF kitty. This initiative will benefit many old people in our county,” said the county boss.
The law is set to benefit more than 15,000 people aged above 70 years and above if passed.
Mzee Obiri Mwacha, 100, applauded the county leadership and urged them to expedite the process to benefit the old as soon as possible.