This archive report was first published on 21 May 2020.
On May 21, 2020, the Nairobi Regional Commissioner, Wilson Njega, announced that the government has been supporting over 120,000 vulnerable households in Nairobi through a cash transfer program.
According to Njega, the program has been in place since the COVID-19 pandemic began, and it has helped to cushion the economic impact on vulnerable households.
The cash transfer program has seen 382,033 people receiving Sh.1000 stipends every week to help them cater for their daily subsistence.
The program is being undertaken alongside other state social support programs for vulnerable groups, including the disabled, orphans, and the aged.
Before the pandemic, the program was benefiting around 21,000 people, but the numbers have since risen to over 30,000.
Speaking during a press briefing at Nyayo House, Njega hailed the efforts made by various donors towards the COVID-19 emergency response, saying the assistance has gone a long way in alleviating the sufferings of many affected by the pandemic.
He encouraged all well-wishers to forward their donations through the government's laid-down structures, including the National Government Administrative Centers (NGAC), to facilitate orderly and transparent distribution.
The RC also encouraged Nairobi residents to go for testing, saying this would help the government to put up adequate intervention measures.
He appealed to other leaders in the region to work closely with the government, particularly in sensitizing the public about the seriousness of COVID-19.
On the recent alleged evictions in Kariobangi and Ruai, Njega asked the media to seek clarifications from the relevant authorities so that the truth and facts can be laid bare.
He noted that the land cases had been resolved in the past and it was time for the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company to go ahead with their project.
The Nairobi Police Commander, Phillip Ndolo, assured the public that the police will continue to be vigilant, particularly during the curfew period, to curb any form of crime, including house breaks.
