The mapping of flood victims in Nairobi’s informal settlements has begun with several camping organizations in Kibera. The organizations are relying on Shining Hope for Communities (Shofco) to identify those in need.
On Thursday, five organizations led by Kenya Private Sector Alliance (Kepsa) were at Shofco Kibera School for Girls where 500 flood victims gathered to receive food donations.
“We are happy to be hosted by Shofco, which is identifying real victims of the floods. The organization has helped us identify families living along the riverbeds,” said Gloria Ndekei, Executive Director of Kepsa Foundation.
Other organizations that participated in the food distribution included Chandaria Foundation, Global Peace, Mama Doing Good and Marketing Society of Kenya.
Mama Doing Good is an initiative used by First Lady Rachael Ruto to reach out to Kenyans through various programmes.
“We are happy to work with community-based organizations like Shofco that can help us reach out to their people and ensure that everyone is covered,” said KMS Chairperson Zuhura Odhiambo.
Shofco Chief Strategy Officer Mark Laichena highlighted the value of partnerships in dealing with the aftermath of disasters.
“We are here today to witness the value of partnership in dealing with disasters. We are grateful to KEPSA and other partners who donated food to the flood victims here in Kibera.
As Shofco, we will use our grassroots network to ensure that deserving people receive these donations,” said Mr Laichena.
According to a report by the Kenya Red Cross, as of May 2, the recent floods have claimed 188 lives and affected over 196,296 people, with approximately 33,100 households displaced.
The heavy rains have also led to the loss of livelihoods, including livestock and farmland, and the destruction of businesses and industries.
Damage to schools, water sources and major roads has also been reported, as well as a high risk of outbreaks of water-borne diseases.
Shofco has been at the forefront of helping flood victims in Kibera, Mathare, Korogocho and Mukuru slums of Nairobi.
“We know that people need psychological support and healthcare, and our teams have been on the ground to ensure that victims are fully supported.
“We are conducting health outreaches through our health clinics because several people have been suffering from diarrhea, especially in the Mathare slums,” said Shofco CEO Kennedy Odede.
The organization is also mapping the hardest-hit areas in Kisumu, Bungoma, Homa Bay and Vihiga counties to send support in the coming days if the flooding continues.
