Kenya has received an additional Sh 7.8 billion from the European Union to address socio-economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, helping Kenyans at risk of hunger and strengthening measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Bulk of the new grant (Sh 3.6 billion) will go towards mobilising resources towards containing the spread and impact of COVID-19 in the health, social and economic sectors. This will be provided through budget support to the Government of Kenya in response to the Covid-19 crisis.
Some Sh1.2 billion will be channeled as direct support to vulnerable families and individuals in informal settlements through monthly cash transfers, with careful checks to avoid double recipients; to ensuring health services are provided to the most vulnerable people; and to enabling people to protect themselves from COVID-19.
In addition, Sh 2.4 to 3 billion will be geared directly for Kenya SMEs Access Finance. This is expected to offer SMEs with short-term working capital, which is essential for them to continue operating and keep Kenyans in jobs; later this will stimulate investments for the post-COVID-19 recovery.
A total of Sh 600 million will be channelled directly for the Safe Trade Emergency Facility which maintains the critical supply chains for trade, ensuring food security and access to critically required medicines.
At the same time the support will make the borders and the ports safer to counter the spread of COVID-19.
EU Ambassador to Kenya, Simon Mordue reiterated the union’s commitment to support the Country during this challenging period.
“Through these support programmes, we are making a real difference to local communities across the country as well as in Nairobi’s informal settlements who are most affected by the outbreak, strengthening our partnership with Kenya.”
The programme is part of an overall Team Europe response that has seen the EU and its Member States working closely to support Kenya during this crisis.
The European Union is contributing over Sh 35 billion to Kenya’s response to COVID-19 whilst EU Member States have already provided more than Sh 3.3 billion.
