By Faith Anene
Khwisero Member of Parliament Christopher Aseka Miradi has renewed his call for urgent government intervention to avert a looming food crisis, urging the ministry of agriculture to prioritise the purchase of locally produced maize even as it considers imports.
The legislator warned that continued drought in some parts of the country could plunge millions into hunger, if decisive measures are not taken in good time.
"When you go to Marsabit, Garissa and Wajir there is drought, and we are going to experience hunger," Aseka said. "I want to ask the president to talk to the National Cereals and Produce Board to buy maize from our farmers in Bungoma and Kitale who still have maize in their stores."
He added that buying maize locally would also build national food reserves, insulating farmers against losses, while enhancing food security.
Aseka was speaking after laying the foundation stone for a Sh150 million dormitory project at Khwisero Vocational Training College. The facility, which will accommodate over 300 students, is expected to ease accommodation challenges and reduce the cost burden on learners who currently live outside the institution.
He added that the project will also profit the local community, by providing employment opportunities for youth during the 1-year construction period.
On funding education, Aseka dismissed claims that government capitation to secondary schools has been reduced, terming the reports as propaganda. He assured parents that the allocation remains at Sh22,000 per student annually.
"I want to assure each and every one of the parents that no school capitation has been reduced," he said, adding that the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) also continues to prioritise education.
The lawmaker stated that 40% of the constituency’s NG-CDF allocation has been set aside for bursaries, with priority given to needy students. At least 45% of the funds, Aseka said, has already been released following disbursement by Treasury Cabinet Secretary (CS) John Mbadi.
On a political point of view, the MP asked leaders from the Western region to start marshaling themselves to “take up national leadership when president William Ruto completes his second term in 2032,” noting the region must strategically position itself for the future.
