After 15 years of transforming lives through healthcare, clean water, nutrition and economic empowerment, World Vision has officially exited the Arror area of Marakwet West, handing over its development projects to the Elgeyo Marakwet County Government.
The organisation made the handover during a ceremony held at Kipkener Primary School, bringing to an end a 15-year development programme that residents say significantly changed their lives.
From improving access to healthcare and clean water to supporting nutrition programmes and empowering women and farmers, World Vision implemented a range of projects aimed at improving the wellbeing and livelihoods of local communities.
Residents and students who spoke during the ceremony said the organisation’s presence over the years had made a major difference, particularly in access to basic services and economic opportunities.
Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich said the county government was prepared to take up the responsibility of managing and sustaining the projects.
Rotich assured residents that the county would work to ensure the investments made by World Vision continue benefiting the community long after the organisation’s exit.
World Vision Acting Director Dr. Gershon Mwakazi said the organisation had invested heavily in strengthening healthcare services in the area.
Among the items handed over were laboratory equipment to support medical testing and 317 handwashing facilities aimed at promoting hygiene and reducing the spread of diseases.
Mwakazi further revealed that 4,418 farmers had received training in agribusiness, equipping them with skills to improve agricultural productivity, increase household incomes and build more resilient livelihoods.
The organisation also supported nutrition through the distribution of vitamin-rich potato seeds, targeting improved household nutrition, particularly among children under the age of five.
For residents of Aror, the exit marks the beginning of a new chapter, with the county government now tasked with ensuring the projects remain functional and continue serving the community.
Beneficiaries, including Faith Kiboi, Naomi Kosgei and Brian Rutto from Kipkener Primary School, said the 15-year partnership had left a lasting impact on their community.
The residents now hope the county government will build on World Vision’s achievements and ensure the projects are not only maintained but expanded to reach even more households.
