Fri 21 Feb 2025 | Issue 550

A SIGN OF HOPE:
HOW INNOVATION AND COMMUNITY CAME TOGETHER
AT THE KENYA RED CROSS SOCIETY

A
t the heart of the Kenya Red Cross Society More than just a technical exercise, this initiative
(KRCS) headquarters now stands more than became a labor of love—an opportunity for skill-
just a sign—it is a symbol of innovation, building, mentorship, and empowerment. Each
collaboration, and personal transformation. This participant poured their energy and dedication into
newly installed signage, co-designed and fabricated the project, recognizing its significance not only for
at the Innovation Lab, is a testament to the power of KRCS but also for their personal growth.
digital fabrication and the spirit of community
engagement.
Today, the finished sign stands as a beacon of
resilience and transformation, a visual reminder of
What makes this project truly remarkable is the the impact that innovation and collaboration can
story behind it. The sign was not just built; it was have on individuals and communities alike. It
crafted with purpose by staff, local youth volunteers, embodies KRCS’s mission while highlighting the
and, most notably, Nawaaf—a rehabilitation client crucial role of the Innovation Lab in fostering
whose journey was nearing its final chapter at the learning and empowerment.
center. With a passion for learning and a
determination to contribute, Nawaaf took the lead
in the project, guiding his fellow youth through the For Nawaaf and the youth volunteers, this project
computer numerical control (CNC) machine process was more than just about building a sign—it was
and ensuring they gained valuable hands-on about building futures.
experience.

@KenyaRedCross Kenya Red Cross @Redcrosske Kenya Red Cross

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FEATURE

He saw families lose everything. The once-thriving pastoral way of

life was becoming unsustainable, and deep down, Aden knew he
had to find a new path.

Recognizing his wealth of experience, Aden was invited to join the

Community Managed Disaster Risk Reduction (CMDRR) Committee
under the European Commission Humanitarian Aid Disaster
preparedness (ECHO-DP) project. It was here that he was
introduced to Anticipatory Actions, a forward-thinking approach to
disaster preparedness. Through training sessions, he learned about
climate adaptation strategies, sustainable livelihoods, and the need
for proactive measures to combat the effects of worsening climatic
conditions.

For the first time, Aden saw things differently.

"We had spent years reacting to disasters but never preparing for
them. We needed to change before change destroyed us," he
reflects.

The project exposed him to alternative livelihoods, ways to build a

future without relying entirely on livestock. This knowledge planted

A LEGACY OF WISDOM the seed for a life-changing decision.

AND LEADERSHIP With a heavy heart but a clear vision, Aden made a bold move, he
sold all his livestock. It was not an easy decision. To part with the
BY GRACE WAIGUMO – PR & COMMUNICATIONS very essence of his identity as a herder felt like letting go of his past.

F
or years, Aden Sugow, better known as Aden Yare, was a
respected chief in Bura Location, Bura East sub-county. He
was the kind of leader people trusted; firm but fair, always
ready to listen, and deeply committed to the well-being of
his community. He mediated conflicts, encouraged development,
and ensured that the traditions of his people were upheld.

When the time came for him to retire, Aden returned to the life he
had always known, herding. Managing a vast herd of cattle and
goats, he embraced the freedom of life under the open sky, finding
solace in the rhythm of the land; but the land was changing. The
environment that once sustained his people was now unpredictable.
Climate change was no longer a distant threat but a harsh reality.
The rains no longer came when expected, and when they did, they
were either too little or too much. Droughts stretched longer,
forcing herders to travel further in search of pasture. Water points
dried up, and conflicts over scarce resources became more "Letting go of my cattle felt like letting go of a part of me," he admits.
common. But he knew it was necessary.

Aden recalls one particularly difficult season when he had to move With his earnings, Aden invested in prime land in Bura Town and
his herd across dangerous terrain, hoping to find pasture. Garissa, venturing into the hospitality business. He started small,
opening a modest hotel. It performed well. Encouraged by its
"We walked for days, only to reach a place where the land was just success, he expanded into thriving hotels and lodges, creating
as dry as where we came from. It was heartbreaking. The land we employment opportunities and economic stability not just for
once knew was slipping through our fingers. Our fathers thrived on himself, but for many in his community.
it, but we were fighting a losing battle," he says.

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No longer at the mercy of unpredictable weather, Aden found His transformation was made possible through the ECHO-DP
security in a sustainable business. project, which empowered him and other community members
with the knowledge and tools to withstand climate shocks. Aden’s
For the first time in years, Aden felt a sense of security. He no longer journey stands as a testament to the power of preparation,
feared droughts wiping out his livelihood overnight. His story is a adaptation, and bold decision-making in overcoming adversity.
powerful reminder that embracing change does not mean
abandoning one’s identity—rather, it is a way to secure the future. Once a chief, then a pastoralist, and now a successful businessman,
Aden Sugow continues to lead, not with authority, but with wisdom
Young herders now seek him out for advice, and Aden is always and experience.
willing to share what he has learned.
His legacy is not only in the businesses he has built but also in the
"Pastoralism is our heritage, but we must evolve with the times. We hope he has inspired those willing to embrace change. Through his
need to think beyond one way of survival—diversify, invest, and plan courage and foresight, Aden has shown that a better future is
to protect our future," he tells them. possible, one where communities are equipped to thrive, no matter
the challenges they face.

EMPOWERING
YOUTH,
TRANSFORMING
COMMUNITIES
In Kisauni and Likoni, Mombasa, 2,000 young people are gaining life
skills and economic opportunities to build a better future.

Through the Youth Social and Economic Empowerment project,

supported by the Danish Red Cross and Danish Red Cross Youth,
they are learning decision-making, conflict resolution and financial
literacy, preparing them for jobs and entrepreneurship.

From stronger communities to sustainable livelihoods, every skill

learned is a step toward lasting change.

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 SAFEGUARDING TRUST:
DATA PROTECTION AND PRIVACY
IN HUMANITARIAN WORK
Understanding Data Protection

Data protection encompasses the strategies and measures put in place to prevent unauthorized access, misuse, or loss of personal data. For
KRCS, which works with sensitive information concerning vulnerable communities, a clear understanding of these principles is crucial.

For KRCS, these concepts go beyond legal requirements—they represent ethical responsibilities. Given the organization’s role in humanitarian
efforts, handling sensitive data with care is not just a regulation but a moral obligation, ensuring that those in need receive support with
dignity and security.

Key Responsibilities in Data Protection

The Kenya Data Protection Act and the Data Protection (General) Regulations, 2021 sets out clear guidelines for those handling personal data,
including data controllers and processors, while also safeguarding the rights of individuals whose data is collected. As a data controller, the
Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) must follow these rules to ensure ethical and lawful data management.

The ABCs of Data Protection C – Compliance: KRCS must adhere to the Kenya Data
Protection Act and any applicable international regulations, such as
To integrate strong data protection practices into its operations, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) when working with
KRCS follows the ABCs of Data Protection: global partners.

A – Accountability: KRCS is responsible for ensuring Conclusion: By embracing Privacy by Design and adhering to key data
compliance with the Data Protection Act. This includes maintaining protection principles, KRCS can ensure the safety of personal
clear policies, conducting staff training, and performing regular information, foster trust among beneficiaries, and strengthen its
audits. humanitarian efforts. As we observe Data Protection, let’s reaffirm
our commitment to making data protection a fundamental part of
humanitarian work in Kenya and beyond.
B - Best Practices: Implementing top security measures such
as encryption, regular security assessments, and employee training
on data protection helps safeguard sensitive information.

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STRENGTHENING
NUTRITION
RESILIENCE AND
RECOVERY FOR
FLOOD-AFFECTED
COMMUNITIES ensure resources are set aside for preparedness and mitigation
activities. We need to think about sustainability, and we will
BY BILAAL MWITI – PR & COMMUNICATIONS continue our partnership with KRCS and other county-level
stakeholders."

KRCS Head of the West Kenya Region, Maurice Anyango,

highlighted the program’s direct impact, explaining, "We've been
working closely with this community to ensure the funding reaches
those in need. However, community members have been asking
how long they will continue receiving aid. They have requested
support in becoming self-sufficient to reduce reliance on
emergency funding. Early warning systems are already helping them
take preventive measures, such as digging trenches before the rains
arrive."

H
OMABAY, Kenya – February 20, 2025 – French Ambassador
to Kenya, H.E. Arnaud Suquet, visited Simbi Kogembo
Dispensary, a Level 2 healthcare facility, to assess the
progress of the Nutrition resilience and recovery project
supported by the French government through UNICEF. The visit
brought together key stakeholders, including Homabay County CEC
Member for Health Hon. Grace Osewe, Rachuonyo Sub County
department of Health team, UNICEF representatives :Molly Wangui
Karanja, Rachel Wamoto, and Nicholas Kirimi, alongside Kenya Red
Cross Society (KRCS) officials, Community Health Promoters (CHPs),
The visit to Simbi Kogembo Dispensary underscored both the
and community members.
immediate relief provided by the French government and UNICEF
and the long-term challenges that remain. While the funding arrived
The delegation toured the facility, engaged with healthcare workers,
at a critical moment, lifting a burdened community, it also sparked a
and held discussions with mothers who are enrolled in the program.
conversation about empowerment and sustainability. As Homabay
They heard firsthand how the KRCS supported integrated health
County rebuilds, the partnership between international donors,
and nutrition interventions provided crucial support in the wake of
humanitarian organizations, and local leaders—coupled with
the devastating March-April-May (MAM) rains that cut off access to
continued training of Community Health Promoters (CHPs) to
essential nutrition, clean water, and maternal healthcare services.
empower communities against future climate-related disasters—
offers a model for addressing both the present crisis and the
A key highlight of the visit was a Focused Group Discussion (FGD) uncertainties ahead.
with mothers and Community Health Promoters (CHPs), who play a
critical role in delivering healthcare to communities at the
household level. CHPs are at the frontline of community health,
conducting door-to-door visits , educating families on nutrition, and
ensuring access to maternal and child healthcare. As part of this
initiative, they are currently undergoing training on Baby-Friendly
Community Initiative (BFCI) to enhance their ability to promote
appropriate maternal and child nutrition practices.

Ambassador Suquet expressed his satisfaction with the program's

impact, stating, "It seems to be a very impactful program, and I'm
very happy to see the people who have benefited from the
interventions’

UNICEF’s Chief of the Kisumu Zonal Office, Molly Wangui Karanja,

emphasized the need for sustainable disaster response measures,
noting, "We work closely with the Kenya Red Cross and want to
support Disaster Risk Management (DRM) legislation in counties to

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 IN PICTURES
On 14th February 2025, the African Union
(AU), the International Federation of Red
Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC),
and the Intergovernmental Authority on
Development (IGAD) launched a 10-year
Food and Nutrition Resilience program in
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The initiative aims
to enhance food security across Kenya, KRCS hosted a partnership and
Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Somalia, collaboration meeting with the National
supporting 24 arid and semi-arid (ASAL) Defence College (NDC) on 19th February
counties in Kenya through regional 2025 at its headquarters, led by
collaboration. International Centre for Humanitarian
Affairs (ICHA) Executive Director Safia
The International Committee of the Red Verjee and NDC Deputy Commandant,
Cross (ICRC) and Iranian Red Crescent Major General (Maj. Gen) Stephen Mutuku.
Society (IRCS) are hosting the 1st The discussion focused on strengthening
International Conference on Disability and collaboration in addressing climate
Physical Rehabilitation in Tehran, Iran, with change and humanitarian efforts in
18 national societies sharing insights on disaster response.
disability inclusion. KRCS, represented by
Loreen Orembo, project officer, Climate
change and inclusion highlighted ongoing With cholera reported in Migori on 14th
initiatives, policy reforms, and the February 2025, KRCS, in partnership with
institutionalization of disability inclusion the Ministry of Health (MoH) and the
within its framework. county department of health, is on the
ground responding. Our teams have
distributed chlorine granules, supported
infection prevention and control (IPC)
demonstrations, and are scaling up efforts
with more supplies, health personnel
deployment, community sensitization and
household (HH) sanitation support.

KRCS, Hope Mobility Kenya, and the

National Government Affirmative Action
Fund (NGAAF) on 18th February 2025 held
discussions which led to an agreement on
a tri-partite memorandum of
understanding (MoU) to enhance support
for persons with disabilities (PWDs)
through expert assessments, tailored
The Mathare community-based disaster
solutions, community linkages, and
response team (CBDRT), under the KRCS
logistical support. As part of KRCS @60
Urban Community Building Resilience
celebrations in South Rift region (SRR),
(UCRB) project is ramping up fire safety
the partnership will distribute over 1,000
awareness in Nairobi’s informal
wheelchairs, with the First Lady set to flag
settlements. Joined by the Lower Eastern
off a Cyclist Safety Competition featuring
regional programme coordinator (RPC),
PWDs.
the team highlighted their disaster risk
KRCS hosted the Somali Red Crescent reduction efforts, shared challenges, and
Society (SRCS) Emergency Operations proposed ways to strengthen community
Center (EOC) staff for a peer-to-peer resilience.
exposure visit from 10th to 19th February
2025. The visit featured hands-on training,
technical sessions, site visits, and
simulation exercises, fostering
collaboration to enhance cross-border
disaster response.

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 FromThe
Counties

VALENTINES DAY
ACTIVITIES
PRISON VISITS BLOOD DONATION DRIVES

In a heartwarming display of love and community spirit, KRCS

organized successful blood donation drives across various
regions, in collaboration with local organizations and community
groups. On 13th and 14th February 2025, KRCS Kiambu County
branch, in partnership with the Lil Magic Foundation and the
Kenya Blood Transfusion Service (KBTS), collected 110 pints at
Christina Gardens in Thika. On Valentine's Day, similar efforts took
place in Nakuru, Molo, Naivasha, Kitale, Nandi, and Kilifi, with key
partners such as county governments, Rotary Clubs, and local
organizations. KRCS Trans-Nzoia County branch's drive in Kitale,
marking KRCS's 60th anniversary, collected 115 pints, while other
locations, including Pwani University and University of Baraton,
also contributed to the successful campaigns. These initiatives
highlight KRCS's commitment to ensuring access to life-saving
blood and the continued dedication of volunteers, donors, and
partners.
To mark Valentine’s Day 2025, KRCS teams in Machakos and
Kiambu counties engaged women’s prisons with activities aimed
at fostering joy and community support. In Machakos, volunteers
and staff, alongside the Lower Eastern region (LER) team,
partnered with the National Council for Population and
Development (NCPD), Uwezo College Beauty department, and
Esi-Africa Green Initiative to host an event at Machakos Women’s
Prison. The day featured team-building activities, dance
competitions, and discussions on mental health and menstrual
hygiene, concluding with a cake-cutting ceremony and
distribution of essential items. Meanwhile, KRCS Kiambu County
branch, in collaboration with B-Sounds Entertainment,
celebrated with inmates at Thika Women’s Prison through
shared meals, a talent showcase, and the crowning of Mrs. Thika
Women’s Prison 2025-26. The initiative brought moments of joy
and connection, making the day truly special for the inmates.

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SCHOOL PROGRAMS
Several KRCS branches across the country have actively
participated in school programs and patron meetings to promote
KRCS values, empower youth, and support environmental
sustainability. In Lamu, 32 students from Bright Girls Secondary
School joined KRCS as new volunteers. KRCS Uasin Gishu County
branch volunteers in partnership with various organizations
through the Youth Tuelimishane na Tuungane (YOTTU) program,
engaged Chepyakwai Primary and Secondary School in sports,
mentorship, tree planting exercise where 122 trees were planted
in celebration of KRCS @ 60, and menstrual health awareness.
Nyandarua, Meru, Nyeri, and Murang’a held patron meetings to
review achievements, plan for 2025, and drive initiatives such as
junior first aid training and a commitment to plant over 600,000
trees. These efforts reinforce KRCS’s dedication to humanitarian
service and sustainability.

NYERI HOMA BAY

KRCS Homa Bay County branch successfully held a debriefing

On 14th February 2025, volunteers from KRCS Nyeri County session on 14th February 2025 for the Korean Embassy project.
branch, in partnership with the County Government of Nyeri The session brought together 30 staff and volunteers to review
department of health, conducted a humanitarian visit to families key project areas, including disaster risk reduction (DRR),
in Mathira affected by jigger infestation. During the visit, the livelihoods, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), and health.
team distributed essential food supplies, including rice, maize The debriefing provided an opportunity to assess achievements,
flour, beans, cooking oil, and salt, to support the families’ challenges, and overall project impact. Focal persons and the
nutritional well-being. Additionally, non-food items (NFIs) such as project officer presented key findings, followed by focused group
clothing and soap were provided to improve hygiene and overall discussions (FGDs) that facilitated knowledge-sharing and the
living conditions. The volunteers also facilitated educational development of actionable plans and a staff mental health and
discussions on hygiene practices and jigger prevention psychosocial support (MHPSS) session, offering individual
strategies, equipping the families with crucial knowledge to counseling opportunities.
protect their health and mitigate future infestations.

NAROK EMBU
KRCS Narok County branch visited Maji A stakeholder delegation, led by
Moto Maasai Culture Camp, led by Salaton Susan Mwihaki, Deputy
Ole Ntutu, to strengthen collaboration. Secretary General (DSG)
The team presented a token of Corporate Services, along with
appreciation for the camp’s support at the the Head of Risk Management,
2024 Gala Dinner and agreed on first aid Internal Auditor, Central Head of
training for Ekiteng Ilepa Primary School learners, teachers, and Region (HoR), County coordinator (CC), and representatives from
camp staff. The camp committed to backing KRCS through event the United Arab Emirates (UAE) delegation, visited Embu on 14th
hosting, community projects, and corporate social responsibility February 2025 to advance discussions on the construction of Jomo
(CSR) contributions. Discussions also focused on involving Kenya Home (JKH). The team also explored opportunities to support
volunteers in humanitarian efforts through capacity-building the urban school attended by JKH children, as well as St. Monica
programs. School, which caters to children with mental challenges.

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 TURKANA THARAKA NITHI
The safer access refresher training commenced on 17th February On 15th February 2025, volunteers from KRCS Tharaka Nithi
2025 in Lodwar, Turkana county, with an official opening by County branch, together with students from the Tharaka
County Chairman Paul Jalinga, regional disaster management University Red Cross Chapter, visited Tumaini Children’s Home in
officer (RDMO) Martin Kingori, and regional Youth Coordinator Itugururu. The group dedicated their day to preparing and
Vincent Kemboi. Supported by the International Committee of sharing meals with 48 children (29 females and 19 males), while
the Red Cross (ICRC), the four-day training aims to strengthen also engaging in interactive sessions, games, and mentorship
KRCS responders' capacity in high-risk operational environments. discussions. This outreach initiative underscored the significance
The program will extend to Baringo, Marsabit, and Tana River of teamwork and compassion in fostering a positive impact
counties, which have faced significant safer access challenges. A within the community.
key focus is the identification and empowerment of Safer Access
Framework (SAF) champions to promote safer access at the ward
level.

KISUMU

MACHAKOS
To raise awareness about Mpox, volunteers from KRCS Machakos
County branch, supported by the Norwegian Red Cross
(NorCross) distributed prevention items to key health facilities in
the area, including Machakos Level 5 Hospital, Kyumbi Health
Kadibo is grappling with a worsening crisis due to prolonged
Center, and Athi River. The initiative, which took place on 14th
drought, severely impacting food security, water access, and
February 2025, is part of the broader preparations for the
livelihoods. Families, particularly vulnerable groups such as
upcoming KRCS @60 celebrations. In addition to distributing the
children, the elderly, and pregnant or lactating women, face
items, the volunteers, in collaboration with the Mavoko health
acute hunger, with many surviving on just one meal a day. The
promotion officer, carried out risk communication and
water crisis, caused by lake backflow and limited access to clean
community engagement (RCCE) activities. Using a public address
sources, poses serious health risks. Urgent interventions are
system, the team reached an estimated 7,700 people, educating
needed, including immediate food aid, strengthened school
the public about Mpox symptoms and effective prevention
feeding programs, improved water access, livelihood support,
measures such as wearing masks, ensuring proper ventilation,
and mobile health clinics for malnutrition screening and
and practicing hand hygiene.
treatment. A coordinated response involving the government,
non-governmental organizations, and the community is essential
to prevent further deterioration and build long-term resilience.

MERU
From 13th to 14th February 2025, the KRCS Technical team met in
Meru county to plan the rollout of the 60 Million Trees @60
initiative over the next two years. The agenda included setting up
tree nurseries, driving public awareness, and empowering
communities in tree care contributing to Kenya’s 15-billion-tree
goal by 2032.

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 TANA RIVER NAKURU

In partnership with the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD)

and supported by European Commission Humanitarian Aid
With support from Norwegian Red Cross (NorCross), KRCS in
Disaster preparedness (ECHO Dp) and Weather & Climate
collaboration with the Nakuru County department of Health
Information Services (WISER Kenya) projects, KRCS launched a
services, carried out a public health risk communication
two-day participatory scenario planning (PSP) workshop in Tana
campaign to curb the spread of the Mpox virus. The initiative
River county. The workshop focused on enhancing community
targeted schools, flower farms, businesses, institutions of higher
resilience by blending climate forecasts with local knowledge to
learning, and transport hubs, reaching approximately 5,626
address the challenges of climate variability and extreme
individuals through door-to-door visits, public address systems,
weather.
and school sessions. Key findings revealed concerns about Mpox
infection among highway communities, while schools had
WAJIR limited awareness of the virus. Effective coordination and early
scheduling of school visits by public health officers contributed
to the campaign’s success, though some schools faced
challenges due to ongoing exams.

LAIKIPIA

The integrated management of acute malnutrition (IMAM)

modular training in Wajir county is providing healthcare workers
with essential skills to address severe and moderate malnutrition
among children, as well as malnutrition in pregnant and lactating
women. This training, organized by KRCS with support from
United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and Foreign,
Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), spans six days
and adheres to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. It
The Red Cross Action Team (RCAT) responded to two fire
focuses on both inpatient and outpatient care, with a key
incidents in Nanyuki on 17th February 2025. The first occurred in
emphasis on the family mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC)
Ruai, where two plots were completely destroyed, resulting in
approach to empower communities to detect malnutrition at its
the loss of livestock and three individuals being hospitalized due
earliest stages. A combination of role plays, and practical
to smoke inhalation. The second incident in Mathagiro displaced
sessions is enabling 60 healthcare providers to enhance their
several families, though no casualties were reported. KRCS, in
ability to manage malnutrition and mitigate its effects in the
collaboration with the Nanyuki Fire Brigade successfully
region.
contained the fires.
UASIN GISHU
TRANS NZOIA
On 17th February 2025, KRCS Uasin Gishu County branch hosted
antimicrobial resistance (AMR) sensitization sessions in the
villages of Kapteldon, Kamoson, and Kapkwenio, reaching 12
households (HHs) and 5 poultry farmers. The sessions focused on
antimicrobial use (AMU) practices and infection prevention and
control (IPC), addressing concerns about selling and consuming
dead animals and the associated AMR risks. Led by community
health promoters (CHPs) and KRCS volunteers, the sessions
encouraged responsible AMU and emphasized the importance of
consulting veterinarians to ensure proper treatment and prevent
antimicrobial misuse. KRCS Trans-Nzoia County branch, in collaboration with National
Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse
(NACADA), the County Government, National Transport and
Safety Authority (NTSA), and other partners, marked National
Substance Use Prevention Week on 17th February 2025. Themed
"My Community, My Prevention Pillar," the event focused on
raising awareness and strengthening drug abuse prevention
efforts. KRCS showcased emergency response services, while
the County Commander urged bodaboda riders to prioritize road
safety amid rising drug-related accidents in Kiminini.
Stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to curbing substance
abuse and enhancing road safety across Trans-Nzoia county.

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vv
 KITUI MANDERA
On 18th February 2025, KRCS Kitui County branch officially
launched an occupational first aid (OFA) training program to
equip participants with vital emergency response skills. The
training focused on basic first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation
(CPR), wound management, choking response, and handling
medical emergencies in workplaces and communities. This
initiative aims to strengthen preparedness and resilience,
empowering individuals to respond effectively to emergencies
and save lives.

KRCS Mandera County branch in collaboration with the Ministry

of Health (MoH), is actively responding to a respiratory disease
outbreak affecting Choroko and Tarbey villages in Guba Ward,
Banisa sub-county. In a meeting with the sub-county health
management team (SCHMT) and the county health management
team (CHMT), key response efforts were discussed, including the
delivery of medical and protective equipment, ongoing sample
collection to determine the cause, and enhanced surveillance
and community engagement. The situation remains critical,
requiring continued support to strengthen response efforts,
provide essential medical supplies, and improve access to clean
BOMET water.
KRCS Bomet County branch, in collaboration with the County
Government of Bomet, conducted a medical camp in Cheptalal
village, Konoin sub-county, benefiting over 1,000 patients with
free screening and medication. The ongoing healthcare initiative
will conclude on 21st February 2025 in Sotik sub-county. Key
partners include Aster Medical Center, Social Health Authority
(SHA), National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), the
National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol (NACADA),
and National Employment Authority (NEA).

WEST KENYA

In a collaborative effort to enhance road safety, the County

coordinators (CCs) of Kisii and Nyamira organized a first aid
sensitization session targeting Matatu owners and Sacco
operators. The initiative aimed to promote first aid training as a
vital component of road safety. The engagement was successful,
as both the County Road Safety committee and Matatu owners
acknowledged the critical role of first aid training in ensuring
safer transport systems.

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vv
 DISASTER
MANAGEMENT
Policy Summary

The Disaster Management Policy emphasizes coordination with the

provides a comprehensive disaster government, internal and external
preparedness, mitigation, response, coordination, partnerships, and the
and recovery framework. The policy establishment of Disaster
recognizes the Society's Management Funds. The policy
constitutional mandate to assist the addresses issues such as security,
Kenyan Government in humanitarian human rights, gender
work during both peace and conflict mainstreaming, information and
times. It emphasizes adherence to communication, psychosocial
international frameworks such as the support, and the Society's
Hyogo Framework, Sendai commitment to advocacy and
Framework for disaster risk continuous review and improvement
reduction, and Sustainable of disaster management efforts. It
Development Goal 11. The policy highlights the Society's commitment
defines key terms related to disaster to responding to all scales of
management and outlines disasters and implementing
objectives, including contributing to comprehensive exit strategies and
development, improving health, recovery activities with active
conflict resolution, and promoting community participation. The policy
disaster prevention and mitigation. aims to ensure the safety and well-
The policy emphasizes a being of staff, volunteers, and
community-driven approach, affected communities while
detailing initiatives for disaster risk promoting resilience and sustainable
reduction and preparedness. It disaster management practices.

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