Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen on Monday, April 17, promised to help gospel artist Mercy Jerop but ruled out the possibility of buying her a car.
In a statement, the Transport CS noted that he was open to supporting her business which had since run into turbulence.
Defending his choice, Murkomen noted that the two arrived at the decision after determining that a business was more sustainable for the artiste.
"Mercy was a saloonist who, like many other entrepreneurs, suffered a major setback in 2020 because of (the pandemic). We have discussed how I can support the revival of her business.
"We have agreed that even though a car may be important for her ministry, it’s better to support a sustainable business that can finance her gospel ministry in the long run. I congratulate Mercy for her service to God and mankind," the CS stated.
Murkomen's response came a day after Jerop requested him to help her get a car to support her gospel career.
Later, in a phone call to Kenyans.co.ke, the gospel artiste from Tinderet Constituency revealed that the lack of a car was her main challenge hindering her from spreading the word of God.
Jerop revealed that CS Murkomen called her on the morning of Monday, April 17, but remained tight-lipped on the details of her phone conversation.
She shared a photo of her holding a banner with details of her plea to CS Murkomen on her social media.
"Please Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen, buy me a car to aid my ministry," read the appeal.
She explained that she had failed to attend a number of live performances, tours, and gospel seminars due to the lack of a vehicle. Well-wishers had earlier donated fare for her to reach out to people but she maintained that it was not enough.
"I appeal to all Kenyans to support me in spreading the gospel and I believe the CS will support me," Mercy stated.
She noted that her choice to direct her plea to CS Murkomen was motivated by the fact that he is in charge of the Transport Ministry.
Jerop, a mother of two daughters, started her music career in 2015 and has recorded 15 songs.
The 29-year-old gospel artiste was born in Kaptumo, Aldai Constituency, Nandi County. She was married to a laboratory assistant in Tinderet Constituency.
