China has given Kenya a KSh259 million cash grant to strengthen Ebola preparedness and support communities affected by drought.
The USD 2 million grant will target two key areas. Specifically, half of the funds will strengthen Ebola preparedness, while the remaining amount will support drought response efforts.
Grant to Strengthen Ebola Preparedness
China has allocated USD 1 million to improve Ebola preparedness in counties classified as high- and very high-risk.
The funding will help Kenya prepare for a possible outbreak. In addition, it will support government efforts to strengthen public health systems and improve emergency response.
Meanwhile, China has set aside the other USD 1 million for drought response. The funds will help the government address the effects of drought and support affected communities.
Chinese Officials Hand Over Grant
Chinese officials handed over the grant at the National Treasury in Nairobi.
The ceremony brought together Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Guo Haiyan, National Treasury Principal Secretary Dr Chris Kiptoo and Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni.
During the event, Ambassador Guo said the funding demonstrated China’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Kenya.
Furthermore, she noted that the assistance aligned with the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and the Global Development Initiative (GDI).
Government Welcomes China’s Assistance
Dr Kiptoo welcomed the grant and thanked China for responding promptly to Kenya’s request for assistance.
The support comes as the government seeks to improve its response to public health emergencies. At the same time, Kenya continues to address drought-related challenges affecting vulnerable communities.
Through the grant, the government hopes to strengthen epidemic preparedness and reduce the impact of drought. As a result, the funding will support efforts to protect public health and assist communities facing difficult conditions.
