The Nakuru MCA from Marioshoni Ward Agnes Jerotich Salimu has said that much is expected from her by the minority marginalised community of Marioshoni.
She told journalist from her office that her election was also a clear victory for the minority community which has fought for its existence for a long time. And with the population of Ogieks in the country estimated to be only 11,000, her desire is to leave behind a legacy of development and recognition through provision of better roads, piped water, easy access to health facilities.
The community is mostly illiterate and conservative and Salimu says that she wants to also change the socio-economic status of both women and youth.
“Though I had male opponents, the people had faith in me and that is why they elected me. Every day, I ensure I use the power they gave me for their own benefit,” says the mother of five.
“It was so surprising that when my constituents saw graders making way for tarmacking of roads, they were shocked. They all came in large numbers to witness and experience the wonders of the world,” said Salimu.
“I am so happy that I already have five Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) classrooms in the ward. These were completed in the last financial year but I expect to build more in the current financial year,” she says.
Through her involvement with other development partners, she has set up the Kiptunga Athletes Training Camp. At the moment, 15 trainees are undergoing training at the camp under the watch of one manager who also serves at the trainer.
“Youths have huge potential in athletics and the best thing to do is to provide them with a platform to get skills and be qualified to compete at any level of competition,” she says.