Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has ordered county officials to expedite and complete land ownership documentation for the St. Mary Village Home for the Aged Women in Sagana.
She directed the officers to fast track the processing of the ownership papers to save the institution from further uncertainty that has for years threatened the stability of the home.
Speaking on Saturday during a visit to the home, Waiguru raised concern over the long-standing land challenges that have exposed the facility to potential disputes.
The home currently hosts 37 elderly and vulnerable women, many of whom have been neglected or abandoned. She described their situation as “heartbreaking and unacceptable,” insisting that securing the land must be treated as an urgent priority.
“For too long, this facility has operated under the shadow of land disputes because of missing documents. These elderly women deserve a safe, stable, and dignified place to call home,” she Said.
She directed the County Executive Committee Member for Lands to finalize and issue the title deed within a week, saying the county would not allow the home’s future to remain uncertain.
Beyond addressing land insecurity, Waiguru also pledged to resolve the persistent water shortages that have affected the home for years. She assured the management that the county would provide a permanent, reliable water supply to restore comfort and dignity for the residents.
During the visit, the governor called on families to embrace their responsibility toward aging parents, noting with regret that many elderly citizens end up at the home because relatives abandon them.
“It is devastating to see our senior citizens neglected. We must show love, gratitude, and care to those who raised us. Caring for them is not a burden it is a blessing,” she said.
The visit also saw a fresh wave of support delivered to the facility. A donation of 20 mattresses, 100 blankets, and assorted foodstuffs was donated to the elderly residents, aimed at improving their comfort and daily living conditions.
Waiguru recognized the efforts of Suqoon, a nonprofit organization that has played a key role in modernizing the facility. Under the leadership of CEO Shakira Khawaja, Suqoon has renovated major sections of the home, including the dining hall, walkways equipped with support rails, and the modernization of the kitchen.
Khawaja thanked the county government for stepping in to solve the long-standing water and land ownership issues, saying the intervention would significantly uplift the dignity of the elderly women.
“Ensuring this home has secure land ownership and adequate water supply is a major step in honoring our elderly. We are grateful for the county’s commitment,” she said.
Waiguru’s directives and the renewed support are expected to bring lasting stability to the Sagana Home for the Elderly, giving the institution space to focus on its core mission of providing care, safety, and dignity to some of Kirinyaga’s most vulnerable residents.
by David Wandeto
