This archive report was first published on 14 July 2020.
As the Covid-19 pandemic continues to affect communities worldwide, Moses Omondi from Kibera, Nairobi, has taken it upon himself to make a difference. In April, he launched the Adopt a Family initiative, which has so far benefited over 600 families who have been hard hit by the pandemic's economic effects.
Having grown up in the biggest slum in the country, Omondi is well aware of the challenges faced by residents. His initiative seeks to cushion families in four ways: through the voucher system, food donation, direct money transfers, and setting up small-scale businesses.
With the help of a team of volunteers, Omondi identifies vulnerable families and mobilizes resources through his network. For accountability and transparency, the initiative has put in place an M-Changa account with three mandatory signatures and the filing of receipts.
One of the beneficiaries of the initiative is Abigael Wayo, who received two boxes of biscuits and sweets to start a small-scale business. Another beneficiary, Marion, a widow who used to sell porridge, received a voucher to buy foodstuffs.
As the pandemic continues to render many jobless, Omondi's Adopt a Family initiative is a beacon of hope for those in need. His selfless efforts are a testament to the power of community spirit and the impact one person can have on the lives of others.
July 14, 2020, Citizen TV Kenya tweeted, "Philanthropic Kibera man starts 'adopt a family' initiative to support families hard hit by COVID-19 pandemic pic.twitter.com/v6qpnUB2ht " (@citizentvkenya).
