Mau Mau war veterans from Kiambu County have lauded the county government for measures it is proposing to improve their livelihood.
They said the announcement by Governor William Kabogo during Mashujaa Day celebrations at Ndumberi that those who fought in the Mau Mau war and were still alive would be receiving a monthly stipend was long overdue.
They are now calling for the implementation of the governor's proposal without delay.
Led by their Chairman Gitu Kahengeri, the elderly freedom fighters said that although in the past nobody in government bothered about their plight, the governor's announcement was an indication there was hope for them and their families.
On Tuesday, Governor Kabogo promised them that they will be receiving monthly stipends as well as free medical care courtesy of his government if the county assembly approves the proposal.
The governor said the proposed legislation stipulates the county government's support for the former freedom fighters.
Gitu said many Kenyans who participated in the armed struggle for independence had either passed on or were living in abject poverty.
He suggested that for Governor’s proposal to succeed the county government must properly identify the beneficiaries to ensure only bonafide war veterans or their next of kin benefited.
He spoke in Thika town on Thursday.