IRIS KAINGU PROPOSES COMMUNITY FUNERAL FUND TO PROMOTE DIGNIFIED BURIALS
By Andrew Mukoma
Mwandi Member of Parliament Iris Kaingu has proposed establishing a community funeral fund to help families meet burial expenses and ensure their loved ones are laid to rest with dignity.
Ms Kaingu says the proposed initiative would involve committees in each ward coordinating support for bereaved families, with community members making small contributions and the MP mobilising additional resources to supplement the funds.
Speaking during an interview, Ms Kaingu acknowledged that Members of Parliament often face expectations to provide financial assistance for funerals, airtime and other personal needs, even when such matters fall outside their official responsibilities.
She said the proposed funeral fund was an idea she hoped to develop into a practical way of supporting families during difficult times.
“Each and every ward will have a committee that is dedicated to seeing to it that once there’s a funeral, you have to go up there to the family and see what it is that they require,” Ms Kaingu said.
She explained that community members could contribute small amounts, such as K10 or K20, while she would seek additional resources to help meet the needs of bereaved families.
“What we need to focus on is putting our people to rest in a dignified manner, and it’s important that we do,” she said.
Ms Kaingu’s proposal seeks to encourage shared responsibility in supporting grieving families rather than placing the entire financial burden on the MP