How to Support and Contribute during The Flood Crisis in Kenya

The recent catastrophic floods have taken a heavy toll, with thousands displaced and considerable fatalities. It’s hard to watch the news or log into social media and not be overwhelmed by the devastation. And nothing is worse than the helplessness that accompanies that devastation, I mean we are only human. However, there are ways we can make a difference, even from a distance and even in the littlest ways we can.

According to the Kenya Red Cross, as of 28th April, the floods have resulted in 69 deaths, 59 injuries, and 17 people missing. Out of Kenya’s 47 counties, 33 have been affected. Over 25,000 households have been impacted by the flooding, with 11,275 households displaced. Critical infrastructure has also suffered significantly, with 11 critical facilities, 9 health facilities flooded, and 35 schools destroyed. The economic impact is also severe, with more than 480 businesses affected and over 31,000 individuals from informal settlements displaced, with displacement camps set up in Busina, Kisumu, Homabay, Migori, and Kirinyaga.

The first step, however, even before extending help to others, it’s important to ensure your own safety first. Staying warm at all times, avoid high-risk roads and bridges that get flooded and keep informed about updates and warnings. Check your routes online before leaving for or from work, carry an umbrella, and do not let water stagnate. Check on family and friends and share safety tips, use social media to share warning messages and updates, helping to spread awareness and preparedness. As we worry about everyone else and do what we can to support and help them, it makes it easier to know that those around us; that our families and friends are staying safe. Text your parents and families to let them know that you are staying safe.

How to Support and Contribute during The Flood Crisis in Kenya

Donate Essentials

The floods exacerbate the vulnerabilities of already struggling communities with cases like Kibera and Mukuru cases, heightening risks such as disease outbreaks and exposure to harsh weather conditions. Many affected individuals are grappling with inadequate shelter, which makes them particularly susceptible to the cold. Donating your slightly used clothes and helping them stay warm through the rough nights goes a long way. Spreading warmth and love is the hope that they are not alone through these tough times.
Know a struggling family? Reach out to them and support them in the little ways you can, even if it’s just the essentials. Sanitary towels are at the top of that list; the cold weather influences a woman’s endocrine system, which controls the hormones responsible for regulating your period resulting in irregular or heavier flows.

Financial Support

Unfortunately, we cannot reach some of the people who need this help the most and we cannot do as much as we would individually like to help. But together, we can empower and support those that can; from non-governmental organizations to community-based organizations and even government rescue departments. Every donation counts, big or small. By contributing as little as 50 shillings or as much as 1,000, you directly empower organizations dedicated to aiding, supporting, and rescuing flood victims all over the country. These funds are crucial for sustaining their ongoing efforts and delivering vital services such as temporary shelters for the displaced, food, shelter, and medical aid to those in dire need.
Below are some I could find that you can send your support to:(Share more places for donation for us to keep updating this list on vibeyetuafrica@gmail.com)

• SHOFCO (Shining Hope for Communities) is raising $100,000 to support communities affected by the floods.
• Kenya Red Cross
• https://www.mchanga.africa/fundraiser/97294
  

Volunteer

If you can spare the time, volunteering at your nearest disaster centre can make an insanely significant difference. Your skills and labour can assist in various aspects of disaster response and relief operations, supporting those on the front lines and those affected by the disaster. Even just being there for these people and offering support and compassion would go a long way in shining hope and love.

It’s important to remember that every little action counts, society is all of us together, a culmination of efforts towards a single cause. By understanding the situation and contributing in any way we can, we collectively make a significant impact. Let’s stand in solidarity with those affected and contribute to a hopeful, resilient future for all impacted by these tragic floods. As long as you are doing the little you can, we will as a community be alright. The anxiety you feel will be alleviated knowing you are doing something towards a better tomorrow. Remember to stay warm and safe.