Women from the Langas slum in Eldoret received early Christmas gifts from businesswoman Florence Akinyi, but the event turned chaotic as recipients scrambled for food. Police had to intervene to restore calm. Akinyi managed to feed about 2,000 people and urged other donors to step up.
In an early Christmas giveaway for women in the Langas slum of Eldoret, businesswoman Florence Akinyi, known as Mama Dota, provided food to about 2,000 people. However, the event lost control as recipients began scrambling for the supplies, forcing officers from Langas police station to step in and allow for orderly distribution.
Akinyi noted that the large turnout highlights the poverty in the area and called on other philanthropists to contribute regularly, beyond just the holiday season. “The large number of people who showed up here is a sign of poverty in this neighborhood; there is a need for more stakeholders to come forward to help, not just at Christmas but on a regular basis,” she said.
As a local who understands the living conditions, she decided to offer this aid, targeting 2,000 but recognizing many more need support. She encouraged residents to register for government programs aimed at low-income groups, such as initiatives for market women and the disabled.
Among the beneficiaries, Susan Mmbone praised Akinyi's initiative, stating life in the slum is tough and hoping it marks the start of more assistance. “This woman has done a great thing; life in this neighborhood is very hard, I hope this is the beginning of more help,” Mmbone said.
The distributed items included wheat flour, salt, sugar, and rice, among others.
