Nandi: Hundreds of people turned up for the Huduma Mashinani initiative held at Himaki in Nandi East Sub County, Nandi County, spearheaded by Nandi County Commissioner Wilberforce Kilonzo, to bring services to the people.

According to Kenya News Agency, the event was attended by various national government heads of departments, county officials, public service partners including banks, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC), and Huduma Centre officials. These entities facilitated residents in accessing numerous services from one central location.

During the event, Nandi County Commissioner Wilberforce Kilonzo articulated that the Huduma Mashinani initiative aims to ensure government officers serve residents in remote parts of the county, who face challenges accessing services typically available at the Sub County or County Headquarters. Kilonzo expressed gratitude for the large turnout, indicating that people in remote areas are in dire need of government services, and emphasized the necessity of organizing more such forums across the entire county.

Kilonzo also addressed the issue of alcoholism, urging residents to consume alcohol responsibly and avoid illicit brews and drugs that could harm their health. He stated that his office is collaborating with NACADA and KEBS to identify and eliminate illicit brews in the locality to safeguard the community.

Moreover, Kilonzo highlighted issues of early marriages and defilement, noting that several youths have been imprisoned for engaging in sexual activities with underage children, which is against the law. He stressed that such offenses should be dealt with through legal channels rather than informal courts.

Nandi East Sub County Deputy County Commissioner Ngalia Ndaya revealed that during the Huduma Mashinani event, a total of 24 different services were provided to residents, with nine offered by Huduma Centre and 15 by other departments. By 1 p.m., 521 people had registered for services.

On security, Ngalia urged residents to refrain from criminal activities, warning that offenders would face legal consequences.

Nandi County Huduma Centre manager, Henry Bidii, praised the County Commissioner for the initiative, describing Huduma Mashinani as a service delivery channel that enhances access to government services. Bidii encouraged residents to visit the Huduma Centre for efficient and effective services.

Residents, led by Henry Ruto, commended the County Commissioner for bringing services closer to the community, noting that many people struggle to access government services due to challenges like financial constraints and distance. Ruto remarked that the large turnout was evidence of the community's need for more such initiatives.

Essential services offered at the event included health services such as blood pressure and sugar level testing, voter registration, National Identity card issuance, birth certificate services, good conduct certificates, Social Health Authority services, NSSF, and KRA services, among others.