This archive report was first published on 9 May 2020.
On May 9, 2020, a report by the Population Council shed light on the challenges faced by Kenyans in informal settlements in self-isolating during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The report, which surveyed 2,010 respondents in Kibera, Huruma, Kariobangi, Dandora, and Mathare, found that 82% of households may not be able to self-isolate if required to do so.
Respondents cited income disparities as a major obstacle, with 37% citing lack of water and 53% citing the high cost of sanitizers as challenges in preventing the spread of the disease.
Despite the challenges, 99% of respondents reported adopting preventive measures recommended by the health ministry, including hand washing.
However, the survey highlighted a knowledge gap on the transmission of the pandemic, with only 83% of respondents believing that anyone could be infected.
These findings mirror those of a previous survey conducted by Infotrak Research and Consulting, which revealed that many Kenyans were unaware of the risks associated with COVID-19.
