Funding Frontline COVID-19 Response in Kibera

Even as COVID-19 vaccines become more widely available, CFK remains committed to reducing the spread of the virus and addressing the socio-economic impacts of the pandemic in Kibera. Earlier this year, we worked with schools and teachers, providing resources like masks, handwashing stations, and thermometers to help students return to class safely.  

Most recently, our Community Health Outreach team collaborated with the Kibera Sub-County Health Coordinator to select and train 22 students as water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) Champions. The WASH Champions participated in a one-day training where they learned about proper handwashing techniques and other COVID-19 mitigation measures such as mask-wearing and social distancing. These young WASH Champions will promote positive health behaviors in their classrooms and homes, helping their communities stay safe. 

CFK also partnered with the Machakos County Government to donate 250 dignity kits to vulnerable girls at the Kyaviti primary and secondary schools. Additionally, as food insecurity remains high due to the pandemic, CFK continues to support families with food packages and critical nutrition services.  

Last week, we distributed food packages to 240 households from five different villages in Kibera. Our nutrition team also recently introduced a kitchen sack garden at our Lishe Bora Mtaani Nutrition Centre. The sack garden helps us provide malnourished children with a healthy diet full of macro and micronutrients. It also serves as a learning center where caregivers can learn how to create their own kitchen gardens and cook nutritious meals without increasing their daily budgets. 

To date, less than 2% of the Kenyan population has been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. We appreciate your continued support as we work to contain the virus and alleviate the socio-economic impacts of the pandemic in our community and beyond. Asante sana (thank you). 

Links:

• Article featuring CFK Community Health Worker Pauline Afandi.
• CFK Executive Director, Hillary Omala, discussing COVID-19.
• See our 20 years of service in action.