This archive report was first published on 25 June 2021.
On Friday, June 25, 2021, President Uhuru Kenyatta presided over a fundraising ceremony at the Marian Shrine of Our Lady of Protection in Kitui County, where he was joined by prominent Kenyans, including CBK Governor Patrick Njoroge and his brother, Bishop Anthony Muheria.
During the ceremony, Governor Njoroge and his family pledged Ksh25 million towards the construction of the church, with the President joking that the Governor had been entrusted with all the country's money but had no money of his own.
President Kenyatta also pledged to contribute Ksh10 million towards the cause, although he noted that he did not have the cash at hand and would pay the amount in installments.
Other leaders who joined in the fundraising efforts included Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Defence CS Monica Juma, area MPs and MCAs.
President Kenyatta also vowed to send constructors to drill boreholes in the area, after the area bishop highlighted that residents had to endure prolonged periods without water.
The Marian Shrine was developed by the Catholic Diocese of Kitui to serve as a privileged place of prayer, retreat and recollections.
