The 3-month project “Emergency response and assistance for the rapid recovery of populations affected by floods in Kenya”, implemented by the Camillian Delegation of Kenya through CADIS Kenya, under the supervision of CADIS International and in collaboration with the Buddhist Tzu Chi Charity Foundation (BTCCF), concluded with important results and learnings.
The general objective of this project, which began in July 2024, is to alleviate suffering, protect health, and restore dignity to populations affected by floods in Nairobi and Baringo counties. The project includes four essential components of services and assistance: [1] distribution of food and non-food aid, [2] support for permanent shelters, [3] medical and psychosocial support, and [4] support for early recovery and resilience building (livelihoods).
Nairobi
1. Mathare Slum
In September, 200 families (818 people) received the last cash transfer and 150 families (697 people) also received school uniforms and stationery. The CADIS team classified all school children by age and the school they attend. Each family received two sets of school uniforms with two pairs of socks, while the school supplies consisted of 12-14 textbooks, a geometry set, eraser, pen, and pencil.
2. Mukuru Slum
In September 2024, the medical camp program continued. The total number of patients who received care was 105 and the total number of services provided was 336. Of the 105 patients, 77 returned for follow-up treatment from the August medical camp and 28 were new patients in September. In addition, 65 laboratory tests were conducted and 131 patients received medication. The age of the beneficiaries of the total health services included children from 0 to 17 years, adults, and the elderly.
Baringo County
1. Eldume
In September, 21 new houses were built and assigned to as many families; 200 families (1182 individuals) received the food security program containing agricultural inputs (seeds, organic fertilizers) and training on agrotechnologies. Food security programs were also received, such as cash transfers to 100 beneficiary farmers. 200 families with school-age children received 2 sets of school uniforms with a pair of socks and consumables such as 12-14 textbooks, geometry set, eraser, pen, and pencil.
2. Ng'ambo
In September, 10 new houses were built, assigned to 10 families (49 children and adult members). 100 families (642 individuals, including school-age children) received two sets of school uniforms with pairs of socks and consumables such as 12-14 textbooks, geometry set, eraser, pen, and pencil.
3. Salabani
In September, in Salabani, 19 new houses were built and assigned to 19 families (124 children and adults). 100 families (555 individuals) received a food security package consisting of agricultural production means, maize seeds, and training in agrotechnics. 150 families (895 children and adults) received 300 sets of school uniforms with pairs of socks and consumables such as 12-14 textbooks, geometry set, eraser, pen, and pencil.
All new houses were built on higher ground, where the risk of flooding is almost nil or minimal. The reception program in Baringo has been completed and all houses have been handed over to the beneficiaries.
The implementation of this project and the September activities were not without challenges, but also provided great lessons for future project implementation. One of the challenges we faced was parting from the beneficiaries, especially the residents of Mathare and Mukuru. They constantly asked for an extension of the project, but we explained to them that this was an emergency and recovery phase. They felt attached to the CADIS team and expressed their desire to be supported.
Another challenge was faced during the transport of construction materials in some areas of Baringo County, due to impassability and poor infrastructure. However, the team managed to implement and complete all construction activities on schedule.
The project brought with it many lessons: community participation proved to be a treasure for the implementation of our project. In these activities, the communities involved were fully engaged in all stages, including the identification of the most needy people. Collaboration with local authorities, such as chiefs, and with other organizations, such as the Kenya Red Cross, made the implementation process even smoother. Finally, our teamwork and our focus on “being with the affected people” was another lesson tested and demonstrated. Our presence in the lives of the victims represented a transformation for them, they felt encouraged and loved.
The team had the opportunity to interview some of the beneficiaries of the emergency project. Their stories will be published in the coming weeks. Keep supporting us and following us so you don't miss any updates.
