A 72-year-old woman who passed away days before she could move into a house that was built by well-wishers was laid to rest on Saturday, October 24.
Catherine Cheruyiot known to residents as Mama Catherine Gogo was discovered to be living in a dilapidated house at Kipsoen, Kamariny Ward, Elgeyo Marakwet County, which prompted action from residents and well-wishers.
Chebaibai Foundation, which is a Christian based organisation founded by Elgeyo Marakwet Women Representative Jane Chebaibai visited the grandmother in her home in July 2020.
"With support from the people of Elgeyo Marakwet County and donations from all well-wishers, we will ensure that Gogo gets a good house," the organisation stated.
When the plight of the blind grandmother made rounds on social media, the area governor Alex Tolgos donated tonnes of sand and building stones for construction.
The house was completed but before she could occupy the home, she fell ill and passed away.
There have been incidences of elderly couples living in abject poverty despite social protection programmes by the government.
During Mashujaa day celebrations, Embu County Commissioner Abdullahi Galgalo set up a fundraiser for a blind elderly couple aimed at constructing a decent house for them.
In 2018, the Inua Jamii Senior Citizens’ scheme was implemented to offer universal pension coverage for all citizens of Kenya once they reach 70 years of age.
Under the programme, all citizens are entitled to a minimum income guarantee in their old age.
At the same time, the government runs the Older Persons Cash Transfer (OPCT) which was started in 2007.
The program provides regular and predictable cash transfers to poor and vulnerable older persons (65 years and above) in identified deserving households.
In the 2015/ 2016 financial year, the OPCT was reported to be covering 203,011 households in Kenya.
