Nguni Ward Representative Jeremiah Mutua has urged the government to expedite the process of distributing relief food to Kitui county saying many residents are suffering due to a prolonged drought.
The MCA urged the authorities to also consider schools that reopened this week for third term.
Deliver relief food to schools
Mutua argued that it would be difficult for learners to concentrate in class on empty stomachs.
“I plead with the national, the county government and any NGO to intervene and salvage the situation. Most children have nothing to eat at home, but if they would be sure that they will eat in school, it will be a relief even to the parents,” Mutua said.
He warned of increased school dropouts and poor performance if the hunger issue is not addressed.
“This being the shortest term, I plead for food relief in schools,” he added.
The county legislator alleged that two people including a school-going child died after eating poisonous cassava due to hunger.
“The extent to which hunger has deepened its roots is worrying,” he added.
The two are said to have developed stomach complications after eating the meal and succumbed on their way to hospital.
He claimed the area MP donated several sacks of foodstuffs to the family, a move he dismissed as a temporary solution.
“As we wait for the rains, the government should step in and helps locals,” he added.
