Murang’a County implemented a tech-enabled system to distribute subsidized maize flour to approximately 135,000 farmers during the Christmas season, starkly contrasting the rally-style handouts seen in other parts of Kenya.

• Murang’a’s digital distribution allowed beneficiaries to redeem subsidized unga privately from accredited local merchants, ensuring transparency and accountability through real-time digital tracking.
• The initiative, led by Governor Irungu Kang’ata, eliminated public gatherings and political branding, serving as a pilot for future large-scale distribution of agricultural inputs.
• This dignified approach contrasted with public food distributions by President William Ruto in Eldoret, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki in Tharaka Nithi, and other governors like Susan Kihika in Nakuru and Kimani Wamatangi in Kiambu.