This archive report was first published on 19 July 2020.
A new survey by Trends Insight For Africa (TIFA) has shed light on the public's perception of the government's COVID-19 containment efforts, with a dismal 33% approval rating.
Conducted between June 2 and 15, the survey of 579 residents in Nairobi's informal settlements found that 48% of respondents rated the government's response as 'somewhat effective', while 9% described it as inadequate.
On the issue of government-funded assistance, the survey reported a 23% approval rating, with 32% of respondents rating it as average and 23% scoring it as inadequate. A further 17% said the government had failed to provide necessary support.
Notably, 62% of respondents said they knew someone who had received cash support, while 59% said they were familiar with people who had received food relief assistance. Additionally, 66% reported knowing someone who had received free masks.
However, the survey noted that awareness of government assistance does not necessarily translate to positive opinions about government performance. In fact, only three-quarters of respondents were aware of at least some measure implemented by the government to assist the needy.
Should there be minimal changes in provision of assistance to vulnerable populations, 40% of those surveyed predicted an increase in crime, while 32% predicted an increase in hunger. A further 4% and 3% cited increased violent riots and peace protests respectively.
