Jesuit Development Office Brings Vital Relief and Hope to Mutomo Sub-County
By Edward Musungu
In a concerted effort to alleviate the effects of severe drought in Mutomo Sub-County, Kitui County, the Jesuit Development Office (JDO), led by Fr. Didymus Shirima, SJ and Mrs. Damaris Kamanthe, recently completed a two-day visit marking the final phase of the 2023 initiative, “Nutritional Support for Households in ASAL regions”.
During their stay, the team delivered essential food support to approximately 300 families at the Mutomo Chief’s office. The distribution, coordinated by Mrs. Esther Thuo – the Assistant County Commissioner, and area Chief Madam Priscilla Miwa, offered a lifeline to residents significantly impacted by the ongoing drought.
On the second day, the Jesuit officials visited St. Patrick’s Mutomo Secondary School, where they inspected new water tanks and rainwater downpipes installed as part of the project initiative. They were pleased to observe the successful growth of over 1,200 tree seedlings planted at the project’s inception, a step towards environmental recovery and sustainability.
The Mutomo Project’s scope extended far beyond providing immediate food relief. It aimed at fostering long-term resilience by raising environmental conservation awareness and promoting sustainable land management practices. Central to these efforts was training over 120 women in alternative livelihood strategies, such as kitchen gardening and trading in household goods, enabling them to diversify their income sources and enhancing their capacity to withstand future climatic challenges.
The success of this initiative, which has made an impact to thousands, would not have been possible without the generous support of our partners. Their contributions have not only provided immediate relief but also set the stage for a more sustainable and hopeful future for the indigenous people of Mutomo Sub-County. We extend our heartfelt gratitude.
