Elderly widowers and widows in Nyando constituency, Kisumu County, have
blamed cattle rustling for escalating poverty and insecurity among residents.
The elderly said many locals are languishing in
poverty after losing their livestock to theft, which remains rampant in remote
areas.
They linked the problem to poor road infrastructure and lack of electricity,
which make it difficult to curb the vice.
Elderly widower Jacob Odhiambo said the menace
has left many senior citizens living in fear and misery.
The 79-year-old said insecurity has worsened
health conditions among the elderly, with many suffering from stress-related
illnesses.
“Many elderly people die of depression, diabetes,
and heart attacks because of insecurity. Cattle rustling has become the order
of the day in this area of Nyando constituency,” Odhiambo said.
Speaking during a sensitization program dubbed
the Widowers Empowerment Support Initiative
at East Kano Chief’s Camp, the elderly called on the government to improve
roads to help them access health facilities more easily.
The program, led by Director Samuel Okombo and
supported by Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, aims to empower
widowers and enhance government engagement with the elderly.
Odhiambo urged the government to do more to
support senior citizens.
“Most elderly people feel neglected by the
government because of the tribulations they face. We need assistive devices,
clean water, and affordable medical care like other Kenyans,” he said.
During the event, more than 150 widowers received free medical tests and were registered with the Social Health Authority (SHA).
They also received hygiene and comfort packages, including nail cutters,
bathing soap, vests, shavers, and T-shirts.
Okombo encouraged the elderly to form
community-based organizations (CBOs) to enable them to access government
support and speak with one voice.
“Such CBOs can be used as platforms to channel
your issues to the relevant government offices. Insecurity can be addressed
more effectively when you are organized,” he said.
He also urged the elderly to embrace the Nyumba Kumi initiative to enhance local
security.
Okombo appealed to well-wishers to support
senior citizens who are no longer able to engage in productive economic
activities.
“I appeal to people with the capacity to help
the elderly in society. They need our support to live healthier, more dignified
lives,” he said.
Nyando Deputy County Commissioner Elijah
Maranga and Assistant County Commissioner Shadrack Kirui urged residents to
report cases of insecurity promptly.
“We
don’t want a situation where people collaborate with cattle rustlers.
Government officers are here to ensure a conducive environment for economic
development,” Maranga said.
