This archive report was first published on 21 April 2020.
President Uhuru Kenyatta's national emergency kitty to support vulnerable Kenyans in the wake of coronavirus has received a significant boost, with donations reaching Sh1.29 billion as of April 21, 2020.
According to Jane Karuku, chairperson of the Covid-19 Emergency Response Fund, the donations include Sh917.77 million in cash and Sh370.3 million in kind.
The kitty has received contributions from civil servants, wealthy Kenyans, local corporates, multinational companies, and development partners.
Health ministry officials confirmed 15 new infections on the same day, bringing the total to 296, while five more patients recovered from the disease.
Ms Karuku expressed her gratitude for the support, stating, 'I am happy to report that the support and goodwill towards this initiative has been very encouraging. Corporates, foundations, religious institutions, and individuals have enthusiastically stepped forward to donate to the fund.'
Notable cash donations include Sh200 million from Safaricom, Sh150 million from KCB Group, and Sh100 million each from Co-operative Bank and NCBA, as well as Sh50 million from Absa Bank.
Non-cash donations include Sh150 million worth of airtime from the Media Owners Association, Sh100 million of food supply from Hindu Council of Kenya, and Sh80 million of oxygen from Devki Group.
