The County Government of Uasin Gishu on Sunday hosted a delegation from South Sudan at Siliboi village in Ainabkoi Olare Ward Ainabkoi Sub County.

The delegation visited the County as part of the celebration to mark 30 years since South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir’s was involved in a fatal plane crash in 1993. Several people died after the accident.

Speaking during the event where he represented Governor Jonathan Bii, Municipality of Eldoret Chairperson Julius Kitur noted that the county will initiate a public participation exercise for identification exercise to inform the development programs that will be supported by President Kiir. This follows a proposal by the team to support several programs at the village where residents helped to take Kiir and his team to the hospital.

We will conduct a public participation exercise for you to decide on the key priority areas that will be beneficial to all residents here,” Kitur noted

Kitur said that they will work together with the South Sudan Government for the success of projects that will be initiated.

Dr Barnaba Marial Benjamin who is the Minister of Presidential Affairs and also doubled up as the head of the delegation from South Sudan said a mark was left in the region following the accident and the assistance given to help their President has brought about a cordial relationship between the two nations.

The president is very grateful to you people for saving his life and today we have planted trees to signify life,” said Benjamin.

He added that the crash happened at a time when they were fighting for the freedom of the republic of South Sudan and the Kenyan republic has always given them support since.

Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago thanked President Salva Kiir for considering to sent a team to visit the scene. He emphasised the need to strengthen the relationship and put up proper structures to promote international trade.

Kesses Member of Parliament CPA Julius Ruto urged leaders of the two countries to embrace peace for the development and prosperity of the people.

County Executives for Health Services Dr Sam Kotut and his Roads counterpart Eng Joseph Lagat noted that social health care is among the key areas of concern for growth pledging to continue supporting all development programs in the area.

Ainabkoi Member of Parliament Samuel Chepkonga, Ainabkoi Member of County Assembly Gilbert Chepkonga, and government officials from Baringo County were also present.