Kenya Receives KSh 10 Million WHO Health Kits Amid Flood Crisis

Kenya has received emergency health kits valued at approximately KSh 10 million from the World Health Organization to support response efforts during the ongoing March–April–May (MAM) long rains and flooding affecting several parts of the country.

The donation was officially handed over at Afya House in Nairobi. It was received on behalf of the Cabinet Secretary for Health, Aden Duale, by the Secretary of Administration Mr Adan Halakhe, from the WHO Kenya Acting Representative, Neema Rusibamayila Kimambo.

In his remarks, Duale expressed appreciation for the timely intervention, noting that the support will significantly enhance Kenya’s ability to manage public health risks associated with flooding.

The Cabinet Secretary highlighted that the ongoing heavy rains have caused flooding in multiple counties, leading to the displacement of families, disruption of essential services, and heightened risk of disease outbreaks.

Strengthening Emergency Health Response

“The emergency kits, which contain essential medicines, medical supplies and life-saving equipment, will support frontline health workers in providing critical care, managing disease outbreaks and maintaining essential health services in affected areas.” The CS said.

Duale reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health, adding that the Ministry has activated preparedness measures, including strengthening disease surveillance systems, deploying rapid response teams and ensuring the availability of essential medical supplies.

Also Read: Africa to Welcome Continental Health Leaders at World Health Summit Regional Meeting in Kenya

Rising Disease Risks in Flooded Areas

Speaking during the handover, Dr. Kimambo conveyed condolences to families affected by the floods and reiterated WHO’s continued support to Kenya’s health sector.

“Flooding has disrupted access to clean water, sanitation, and healthcare services in several counties, increasing the risk of outbreaks such as cholera and malaria.” Dr. Kimambo noted.

The emergency kits include cholera case management supplies, rapid diagnostic and investigation tools, water treatment solutions, and trauma kits. These are expected to support health services for approximately 5,000 people in the hardest-hit regions.

Also Read: Kenya Met Warns of Uneven Rainfall, Floods and Dry Spells Ahead of Long Rains

Public Urged to Take Preventive Measures

The Ministry of Health has also urged members of the public to remain vigilant during the rainy season. Citizens are advised to maintain proper hygiene, use safe and treated water, sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets and seek medical attention promptly when symptoms arise.

The handover ceremony was attended by Director of Public Health Dr Stephen Muleshe, alongside senior Ministry of Health officials and WHO representatives, underscoring the collaborative effort in addressing the ongoing flood-related health crisis.

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Health officials and representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO) flag off a truck carrying critical medical supplies in Nairobi. The kits, worth Ksh 10 million, are being sent to various parts of the country to help treat people and prevent illnesses following the heavy rains and flooding that has displaced many families. PHOTO/ MoH