This archive report was first published on 4 August 2020.
On August 4, 2020, the Government of Canada announced a grant worth Ksh 120, 723,003.38 to WHO Kenya to support the country's efforts in controlling the spread of COVID-19.
The grant aims to strengthen Kenya's surveillance and testing capability, with a focus on vulnerable populations and contact tracing across the counties.
WHO Kenya Representative Dr Rudi Eggers stated that the grant will also be used to build the capacity of health workers to engage communities and work with community and religious leaders, women, youth, and special groups to inform communities about protective measures and safe behavior.
Dr Eggers noted that radio messaging will be used to reach groups in remote locations, using local languages, and additional technical personnel will be deployed to the counties to support these activities.
He observed that the rising numbers of COVID-19 cases in recent weeks and the scaling up of community transmission in Kenya are partly due to a general apathy and non-compliance among individuals.
Dr Eggers emphasized the need for resources to scale up the effort in curbing the spread of the virus, thanking the Canadian Government for the generous grant.
WHO Kenya is committed to supporting the country as it goes through the critical stage, guided by experience and lessons from other regions and ongoing scientific studies.
Canadian Ambassador Lisa expressed appreciation for WHO Kenya's tireless efforts to slow down the spread of COVID-19 in Kenya, echoing the urgings of President Kenyatta and the Government of Kenya for individuals to follow health guidelines.
