Kenya Red Cross has cautioned members of the public against falling victim to fraudsters soliciting funds for drought response in the name of the organisation.
In a statement on Friday, November 4, Red Cross said persons behind the new scam have been circulating fake Paybills with the society's logo on social media asking people to donate towards an initiative to alleviate hunger in drought-stricken counties.
"The Kenya Red Cross Society has noted with concern the mushrooming of fake Paybills circulating with the Society's logo on social media asking people to donate towards the drought response.
"We would like to caution members of the public against falling victim to such fraudsters who are out to exploit the unfortunate drought situation that has left over 4.35 million Kenyans in need of support," the statement read in part.
Kenya Red Cross Paybill
The organisation said those seeking to make any donations should only do so through legitimate Paybill number 10000 as the drought situation continues to worsen due to a lack of adequate rainfall.
"Please note that Kenya Red Cross' only legitimate Paybill is Paybill Number: 10000 Account Name: Drought. Members of the public who wish to support the Society's drought response are welcome to do so through this Paybill number," Red Cross added.
#PRESSRELEASE: Warning Against Fake Kenya Red Cross Paybill Numbers pic.twitter.com/T2fUlvOLkZ— Kenya Red Cross (@KenyaRedCross) November 4, 2022
Millions of Kenyans in more than 22 counties have been affected by the ongoing drought situation that has left many humanitarian organisations calling for urgent food donations.
Some of the worst-hit counties include Isiolo, Mandera, Samburu, Tharaka Nithi, Turkana, Wajir, Laikipia, Tana River and Marsabit.
In September President William Ruto flagged off a consignment of relief food to the affected counties after concerns from several quarters.
Speaking at State House Nairobi on September 26, the Head of State said about 3.5 million people have been severely affected by drought in various parts of the country.
Ruto flagged off 50 trucks carrying a total of 20,000 bags of rice and beans to the affected families.
He said the government will review the drought situation on a weekly basis.
"On a weekly basis we will assess the situation and see what this intervention will mean for the people and what can be done in future," the President said.
Ruto noted that he had agreed with governors to equally make provisions in their budget to deal with the drought crisis.
Speaking at the same function, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua assured the nation that the government is keen on ensuring there is transparency in the distribution of the food.
"The food we're flagging off today and subsequently, will not be distributed by county commissioners alone, it will be a concession between the National Gov't, County Gov't and our development partners, so that there is transparency and efficiency," Gachagua avered.
