The British High Commission Nairobi has pledged emergency funding totalling over Ksh140 million to bolster flood relief efforts in Kenya.
This announcement comes in response to the widespread devastation caused by flooding across the country.
The allocated funds will be channelled through UNICEF, a renowned humanitarian organization, to provide essential assistance to the most severely affected populations.
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Specifically, cash transfers will be extended to nearly 6,900 households in the hardest-hit counties, offering critical financial support amidst the crisis.
"The funding will enable flood relief efforts by UNICEF across Kenya with a focus on the most affected counties including Nairobi, Tana River, Garissa, Lamu, Busia, Migori and Homabay," a statement issued by the UK government on Monday, May 6, 2024, said.
Additionally, UNICEF will deliver urgent health, nutrition, and sanitation services through comprehensive outreach initiatives.
These efforts encompass the provision of clean drinking water, temporary sanitation facilities, and hygiene kits to families displaced by the floods. Furthermore, heightened cholera prevention interventions will be implemented to safeguard the health and well-being of affected individuals and mitigate the risk of waterborne diseases.
"Flood relief will include the provision of cash assistance, wash, health and nutrition services through integrated outreaches to displaced families," the statement added.
UNICEF's Representative in Kenya Shaheen Nilofer underscored the paramount importance of prioritizing children's welfare during emergencies.
Nilofer expressed gratitude for the British High Commission's unwavering support, emphasizing the critical role of emergency cash transfers and essential services in alleviating the adverse impacts of heavy rains and flooding.
“When emergencies hit, children are the most affected and they are our first priority. Through the support of the British High Commission, we will be able to provide emergency cash transfers and other essential services to the most affected families to help them cope with the effects of the heavy rains and flooding. We are grateful for the strong support of our donors as we work with the government and other partners in the flood response," Nilofer said.
British High Commissioner to Kenya Neil Wigan echoed sentiments of solidarity with the Kenyan populace in the face of the unfolding crisis.
Wigan emphasized the urgent need to alleviate the suffering of those displaced and adversely affected by the extreme weather conditions.
"The situation facing many Kenyans as a result of recent extreme weather and flooding is heart-breaking.
"This urgent funding from the UK will help alleviate the suffering of those displaced and impacted by the crisis. We stand with Kenya in this emergency and continue to work closely with UNICEF, the Government of Kenya and other partners to do what we can to support the response," Wigan said.
With this latest funding injection, the UK's total contribution to UNICEF's efforts in Kenya stands at £4.3 million, underscoring the enduring partnership between the two entities in addressing pressing humanitarian challenges.
UAE assistance
The emergency funding from the UK comes after the United Arab Emirates (UAE) sent Kenya two planes loaded with relief supplies.
In response to the assistance, the Government of Kenya expressed its sincere appreciation for the support extended by the United Arab Emirates.
Additionally, Kenya called upon other friends and partners to join hands in providing aid and assistance for emergency situation caused by the floods.
