Siaya County Governor James Orengo has faced criticism following alleged poor quality of 215 cows, distributed to residents.
The initiative, which aimed to boost agricultural productivity and improve livelihoods in the region, has sparked controversy and garnered mixed reactions from both politicians and Kenyans online.
In a statement shared on his social media platform on 17th February, Governor Orengo highlighted the distribution event, which took place at Ragegni Primary School in North Uyoma.
He emphasized the significance of agriculture in the economic, industrial, and commercial transformation of the county.
“Agriculture remains the pillar for our economic, industrial, and commercial transformation. I will ensure most of our resources go towards sectors and value chains that will change the lives of people in the shortest time possible,” Orengo stated, alongside images of the distributed cattle breeds.
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Orengo Criticized by Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwalwe
However, the governor’s announcement was met with criticism, particularly from Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale, who accused Orengo of perpetuating poverty in the county.
“My brother, no offense, but please stop promoting poverty. Support the farmers of Siaya to rear dairy cows,” Khalwale remarked, questioning the efficacy of the distributed breeds in improving the farmers’ circumstances.
Social media users also expressed doubts about the quality of the cattle breeds distributed, with some alleging that they were indigenous rather than improved breeds. “These are indigenous cows, Honorable Orengo,” stated Matthew Suter.
Further criticism emerged regarding the condition of the distributed cattle, with accusations of emaciation and mockery directed at the governor.
“Seriously, what kind of cattle are these that a whole governor would be proud to donate to his farmers??? The residents themselves have better well-maintained cattle,” expressed Kimani Ndonga.
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X Users Slam Siaya Governor
Jerry Kathingo echoed similar sentiments, urging the governor to refrain from showcasing emaciated or low-quality cattle and admonishing him for potentially perpetuating a “poverty mentality.”
“Stop the mockery, even if your party is known for poverty mentality, don’t rub it on the faces of the people who entrusted you with their vote. Shame,” Kathingo said.
“These are genuinely improved breeds, not to be compared with those goats. Please cease from perpetuating poverty, Governor,” Milton Kiok asserted, sharing a video showcasing other breeds.
Another user, Kalya Emmanuel, expressed skepticism, suggesting, ” If these are the improved breeds, I bet the mother breed is bones on bones and just a skin casing.”
The Siaya County governor was yet to respond to the criticism by press time.
