ReachReach OutOut
Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 Quarterly Publication of Kenya Red Cross Society
Embers of Fire Emblem of Hope
Drought in Kenya
Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 1 Contents 22 Psychosocial Support Turning despair to hope 21 Goodwill Ambassador Norika Fujiwara Visits Kenya
6 Drought in Kenya Millions face starvation 4 General Assembly Kenya to host global conference 26 ELGON PEACE RUN 6 Fire Tragedies A winner. A heifer for peace From embers of Nakumatt and Sachangwan 27 HIV/AIDS in Prison Red Cross interventions 29 Unsung Heroes & Heroines Angels of Hope 30 Profi le Celebrating service to humanity About the Kenya Red Cross Society
The Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) is a humanitarian relief • Human Capital and Organisational Development: Includes organisation created in 1965 through an Act of Parliament, Youth and Volunteer Development, Human Resource, Cap 256 of the Laws of Kenya. As a voluntary organisation, the Information and Communication Technology and Society operates through a network of 62 Branches spread Dissemination. throughout the country. The Society is a member of the • Supply Chain: Includes Business Development, International Red Cross and Red Crescent Procurement, Warehousing and Logistics. Movement, the largest humanitarian relief Movement • Finance and Administration: Includes Finance and represented in 185 countries worldwide. Administration.
VISION: To be the leading humanitarian organisation in The Offi ce of the Secretary General supervises the Deputy Kenya, self-sustaining, delivering excellent quality service Secretary General, Public Relations, Internal Audit and of preventing and alleviating human suff ering to the most Security. vulnerable in the community. Acknowledgments MISSION: To build capacity and respond with vigour, The Kenya Red Cross appreciates all the donors that have compassion and empathy to those aff ected by disaster and at made the production of this Reach Out possible. Information risk, in the most eff ective and effi cient manner. contained in this newsletter may be used provided that the Reach Out and the author or photographer concerned are Programmes credited as the source. The Editor must be notifi ed in writing • Disaster Preparedness and Response: Includes Disaster and by sending a voucher copy. We welcome brief articles, Preparedness, Disaster Response, Special Programmes and reviews, illustrations and photographs for publication. Tracing. • Health and Social Services: Includes First Aid, HIV and AIDS, If you wish to receive a copy of the Reach Out on regular basis, Disease Prevention and Control, and Social Services. and are not currently on the mailing list, please contact the • Water and Sanitation (WatSan): Includes WatSan, Software Editor. You should also notify the Editor in case of changes in and Hardware. your address.
2 Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 In 1859, a Swiss business man, Henry Dunant was on a business trip to Italy that took him to the Town of Solferino. A vicious battle had just 2009 taken place and thousands of dead, dying and wounded soldiers from either side were scattered on the battlefield, abandoned. His experience changed his life and the lives of millions of people to this day.
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Reach Out is a quarterly publication of the Kenya Red Cross Society
GOVERNOR EDITOR-IN-CHIEF CONTRIBUTORS Paul K. Birech Titus Mung’ou Titus Mung’ou Fatuma Ali Nelly Muluka Salima Mohamed SECRETARY GENERAL EDITORS Jacob Murimi Mike Ayabei Abbas Gullet Nelly Muluka Alex Njoroge Caleb Kilande Jacob Murimi Hodhan Ismail Brenda Alaka Alex Njoroge Sylvia Khamati Hellen Mwangovya Cynthia Cheruto Jackson Oduor Hazina Nasir Angela Murungi Catherine Ntabadde Kenya Red Cross Society, P.O. Box 40712 00100-GPO, Nairobi Tel (+254 20) 603593,602465, 3950000. Mobile: 0722 206958, 0733333040. Fax: 603589. Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 Email: [email protected]. www.kenyaredcross.org 33 Kenya to Host General Assembly n behalf of the Board General Assembly Oof Trustees, staff and The General Assembly is the supreme body of the management of the Kenya Red International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Cross Society, we are pleased Societies. Composed of delegates from all National and honoured to host the Societies who are members of the Federation, it meets 17th General Assembly of the once every two years and determines the general policy International Federation of the of the organisation, elects the President, appoints the Red Cross and Red Crescent and Secretary General, takes decisions on admission and Council of Delegates in Nairobi suspension of National Societies, among other matters. Kenya. Each member society is represented has one vote. The As you may be aware, International Federation of the Red Cross and Red the above meetings Crescent has over 185 member National Societies, the are held every two largest global humanitarian organization. The Kenya Abbas Gullet, Secretary General years and more Red Cross Society is one of the 185 Societies. importantly; for the fi rst time in the Movement’s The General Assembly is followed by the Council of history these meetings will be held in Africa. This event Delegates. promises to attract over 1200 delegates from all the 185 countries across the world. Council of Delegates The successful bid to host this conference in Africa The Council of Delegates brings together the speaks volumes of the International Federation, Red signifi cance of Africa within Event promises to attract Cross Red Crescent National the Movement. We therefore Societies and the International have the opportunity to show over 1200 delegates from Committee of the Red Cross. case the true African spirit 185 countries This meets every two years and during the conference. adopts resolutions of Movement
action and advocacy. Kenya encapsulates all that is best in Africa; not only the famous wildlife but also the opens spaces, excellent Conference Venue climate and the “next to none” warmth of the Kenyan people. We highly recommend that delegates take Situated about 13km from the city center in a serene tours before or after the conference and experience environment of Gigiri, the UN complex provides a the magic of Africa! state of the art conference and meeting facilities. The extensive conference facilities can host conferences We aim to keep you engaged and involved by for over 6000 delegates. providing regular updates and informative progress on the Conference. National Working Committee To start off the planning and event management of the I look forward to hosting you in Nairobi Kenya in what conference, the Kenya Red Cross has formed a National promises to be an exciting and memorable African Working Committee made up of key stakeholders from experience for all. the government, sister society, private sector, partners and donors. The committee key responsibilities Karibu Kenya! will include providing an advisory role and ensuring that facilitates and services necessary for the conference and delegates are available.
Secretariat The Kenya Red Cross has established a secretariat that will be dedicated to the coordination of the preparation and planning of the conference with key stakeholders.
UN Headquarters, Gigiri, Nairobi: Venue of the conference.
4 Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 Drought in Kenya
Impact of drought: Residents of North Eastern Province in search of pasture and water. Photo/Jacob Murimi
By TITUS MUNG’OU
n 21st January 2009, Kenya Red Cross In areas where livestock is the only source of Olaunched a Drought Appeal targeting Ksh livelihood, many school-age children have 1,870,648,275 (CHF 28,343,156) to assist 2,627,909 dropped out of schools to look for food, graze drought-aff ected populations for 12 months. animals or fetch water for domestic use. Kenya Red Cross Secretary General, Abbas Gullet, while l a u n c h i n g t h e a p p e a l s a i d s o m e 2 3 0 , 0 0 0 p e o p l e a ff ected The Government of Kenya fi gures indicate that by the post election violence, receiving food under the 10 million people countrywide could face hunger emergency operations programme (EMOP), donated and starvation after a poor harvest, crop failure by the Government and World Food Programme and rising commodity prices. Subsequently, the (EMOP), were also to benefi t from the drought appeal. Government declared a state of emergency on 9th January 2009 and appealed for food aid. “At least 500,000 school-going children will The drought situation has been aggravated benefi t through this appeal,” said Gullet. by eff ects of the post election violence in The Media Owners Association (MOA) Chairman, Linus 2007/08 that aff ected most parts of the country. Gitahi, announced that the association will partner with Kenya Red Cross during the current appeal. He said the The resultant displacement left many people media owners had pledged to support the drought unable to cultivate their farms. This was further appeal by the Kenya Red Cross, by providing air time worsened after thousands of others were and newspaper space to rally the public and donors aff ected by fl ash fl oods in the later part of the to raise funds and food to assist the aff ected areas. year, with devastating destruction of farmlands, properties, and water and sanitation infrastructure. The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Special Programmes, Ali Mohamed, lauded the Kenya Red Cross for launching the appeal, adding that already some donors have responded to the relief appeal made by the President, while thousands of people were receiving food aid from the state.
The drought appeal is based on a needs assessment indicating that Turkana, Mandera, Samburu, Baringo, Marsabit, Wajir, Moyale Garissa, Kitui, Mwingi, Makueni, Mbeere, Malindi, Kilifi , Kwale and Tana River are the worst-aff ected areas in the country. The districts fall in the marginal agricultural areas of Eastern, Coast and Central Provinces, pastoralists and agro-pastoralists Low precipitation, high food and non-food prices, crop failure, livestock disease, and confl ict has put the food Donation: Residents of Kajiado District receive relief food security status of the people in these areas at a critical level from ABC Bank.
Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 5 Fire Tragedies
Emblem of Hope: Kenya Red Cross personnel during Sachang’wan and Nakumatt fi re tragedies response. Photos/John Muhia & Alex Njoroge
By TITUS MUNG’OU Kenya Red Cross Society responded to two Centre, EACP, MCPCT and Comalink, among others. successive fi re tragedies in Nairobi and Molo, The psychosocial support and DNA tests on the victims that claimed at least 150 lives within a week. of the fi re tragedy, was eff ectively coordinated by the City Mortuary staff , Biotech Forensics and pathologists.
Kenya Red Cross Tracing offi cers recorded 61 cases of missing persons, out of which 13 were cancelled after those earlier reported as missing were traced elsewhere.
Sachang’wan Oil Tanker Explosion Kenya Red Cross staff and volunteers in Molo and Nakuru provided emergency recovery, tracing, counselling and blood donation services following the tragic oil tanker inferno, at Sachang’wan area on 31st January 2009. The death toll at the scene of the tragedy was 89 people. Nakuru Provincial Hospital recorded In Nairobi, the Society carried recovery operations 27 deaths while six deaths were reported in Nairobi. at Nakumatt Downtown Supermarket, after the Kenya Red Cross Tracing Unit received 133 building was gutted down on 28th January 2009. cases of missing persons in Molo and 74 cases in Nakuru. The Society’s Governor, Paul Birech, Kenya Red Cross provided tracing and psychosocial led the recovery eff orts in Sachang’wan. support services to victims of the fi re tragedy. By the end of eight days of operations, the pathologists Kenya Red Cross in partnership with the Kenya National had confi rmed 26 bodies recovered from the site. Blood Transfusion Service mobilised the donation of hundreds of units of blood across the country to Kenya Red Cross staff and volunteers involved during assist victims of the Nakumatt Downtown and Molo oil the recovery eff orts were deployed as follows: 28th tanker fi re tragedies. The Minister for Public Health and January (39), 29th January (76), 30th January (60) 31st Sanitation, Hon. Beth Mugo, made an appeal to the public January (63), 1st February (42), 2nd February (53) 3rd to donate at least 1000 units of blood for the victims. February (52), 4th February (48) and 5th February (22).
The Society received support from a host of institutions and individuals including The Stanley Hotel, Nakumatt Holdings, Tuskys Supermarket, Hilton Hotel, Elizabeth Akor, Galitos, Knight Support, G4s, Kenya Police, Ministry of Defence and Nairobi City Council, among others. In psychosocial support, Kenya Red Cross worked with the Ministry of Special Programmes, Offi ce of the President, Kenyatta National Hospital, Kenya Counsellors Association, Maranatha Counselling A shell of of a vehicle burnt during the Sachang’wan fi re tragedy. College, Servants of the Sick, Amani Counselling Photo/John Muhia 6 Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 77 Drought in Kenya President Mwai Kibaki distributes relief food to drought- The Mercy Train initiative that aims to raise Ksh20 aff ected victims in Thika District, assisted by the Kenya Red million had raised over Ksh10 million towards the Cross Thika Branch Chairman, Mr Peter Mwai (in KRC jacket). drought appeal. A cargo train carrying 80MT of relief food was fl agged off from Nairobi’s Railways Station for distribution through the following routes:
Nairobi-Ulu-Kiu-Kima-Sultan Hamud-Emali-Kibwezi-Mtito Andei-Mackinon Road- Samburu-Mombasa.
By the end of March 2009, Kenya Red Cross through the support from various partners had distributed over 3,528MT of relief food and raised Ksh125,619,741.
Distribution North Eastern Province had received 1,574MT distributed in Ijara, Mandera, Garissa, Wajir, and Tana Donations to Drought Appeal River Districts; Eastern Province 1,256MT distributed in Kitui, Mwingi, Kyuso, Machakos, Yatta, Kibwezi, Nzaui, Kangundo, Kajiado, Kaiti, Mbooni and Kilome among By HODHAN ISMAIL others. ince the launch of the Drought Appeal by the Kenya Red Cross in January 2009, there S In North West pastoral zone 468MT had been have been a number of partnerships established distributed in Turkana, Marsabit, West Pokot, Moyale, to mobilise relief aid.rganisations. The current Samburu and Isiolo, while South Rift had received partnership is with the Media Owners Association, 64MT distributed in Narok and Laikipia. Coast Province Nakumatt, Uchumi and Tuskys Supermarkets, had received 161MT distributed in Kwale and Kilifi . Mercy Train Campaign, Radio Africa, Bamburi, Nairobi area received 4.6MT. Barclays Bank, Australian Red Cross, and Safaricom.
Kenya Red Cross partnered with Radio Africa, Nakumatt, and Uchumi outlets during the ‘24 Hours for Kenya’ food drive on 6th February 2009, which raised over 172MT of food and Ksh600,000 through MPESA account.
The second ‘24 Hours for Kenya’ campaign was on 13th March 2009, spearheaded by 16 radio stations, among them Kiss FM, Classic FM, X FM, Radio Jambo, East FM, Milele FM, Metro FM, KBC (Idhaa ya Taifa), Kameme FM, Kass FM, Iqra FM, Baraka FM, Sheki FM, Ghetto Radio. At least 287MT of relief food and Ksh1.626 million was raised through MPESA account. Kenya Red Cross also received support from the Mercy Train campaign, an initiative of the Standard Group, Kenya Railways, 98.4 Capital FM and Tusky’s Supermarkets, which is on a mission to feed as many Kenyans as possible who are in dire need of food aid through the Kenya Red Cross. Some residents of Turkana District District eating wild fruits, due to prolonged drought. Photo/Nelly Muluka 8 Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 IDPs: House Reconstruction • 10 IDP houses (Australian High Commission) • 10 IDP houses (Kenya Commercial Bank) • Kipsangui and Sugoi schools (Vodafone and Safaricom)Foundations • Ngarua School (Africa Online)
At least 73 IDP houses are currently under construction.
From right, Minister for Agriculture, Hon William Ruto, KRC Governor, Paul Birech and Special Programmes Minister, Dr Noami Shaban, during the opening of a reconstructed Ng’arua School in North Rift. Photos/Alex Njoroge and Abdulaziz Mirza
Sugoi Girls School building after reconstruction. Inset, a section of By ALEX NJOROGE the building destroyed during the post election violence. ome schools destroyed during Sthe 2007/08 post election violence in the North Rift Region were offi cially opened on 12th March 2009, after reconstruction that was coordinated by the Kenya Red Cross.
The schools reconstructed with funding from Africa Online were Arnesens Secondary School, Ngarua Primary School and Sugoi Secondary School.
Present during the opening ceremony were Ministers Dr Naomi Shaban (Special Programmes) and Hon William Ruto (Agriculture), area MP, Hon Margaret Kamar, Acting Chief Executive Offi cer of Africa Online, Mr Shiletsi Makhofane, Kenya Red Cross Governor, Paul Birech, Secretary General, Abbas Gullet and Head of Supply Chain, Susan Ng’ong’a. Mr Makhofane thanked the Kenya Red Cross for a job well done.
Hon Ruto hailed the Kenya Red Cross for reconstructing the schools and pledged continued support to the Society. Reconstruction Kenya Red Cross is coordinating the construction of 1000 houses for IDPs in North Rift Region. By the end of March 2009, the Society had supported construction of houses funded by institutions indicated in brackets:
• 310 IDP houses (Netherlands Red Cross) • 120 IDP houses (Vodafone and Safaricom Foundations) Drought in Kenya During a hand over event on 10th February 2009, the Media Owners Association (MOA) Vice Chairman, Martin Khafafa, who is also the Group General Manager of Radio Africa, expressed the commitment of the media to help the drought aff ected people. Also present during the ceremony were Kiss 100 and Classic 105 presenters Caroline Mutoko and Carol Radull, Nakumatt and Kenya Red Cross offi cials who joined the Radio Africa team to fl ag off trucks loaded with relief food from the Society’s Headquarters. Donations made during the ’24 Hours for Kenya’ were From right, Radio Africa presenters Carol Radull and Caroline collected at Nakumatt Supermarkets countrywide. Mutoko, join Thiagarajan Ramamurthy, Nakumatt’s Director of Operations to fl ag off a truck carrying relief food. Photo/Jacob Murimi “Kenya Red Cross is an excellent body and has been doing a fantastic job, not only during drought but 24 Hours for Kenya also in responding to other disasters,” said Thiagarajan housands of people donated food and money Ramamurthy, Nakumatt’s Director of Operations. Ttowards the drought appeal in Kenya during the 24 Hours for Kenya initiative that brought together more than 16 radio stations, on 13th March 2009. The initiative helped raise 287.711MT of relief food and Ksh1.626 million, through the M-Pesa.
The radio stations involved in 24 Hours for Kenya were: Kiss FM, Classic FM, Radio Jambo, X FM, East FM, Milele FM, Metro FM, KBC -Idhaa ya Taifa, Kameme FM, Kass FM, Iqra FM, Baraka FM, Sheki FM and Getto Radio, among others.
Earlier in February, a partnership between Radio Africa, A truck carrying relief food donated during the second ‘24 Hours Nakumatt Holdings and Kenya Red Cross helped raise 172 for Kenya’ campaign by 16 radio stations being fl agged off at KRC tonnes of relief food and Ksh600,336 through M-pesa. warehouse, Nairobi. Photo/Jacob Murimi
Safaricom Donation children in the district were at risk of malnutrition. By the time of distribution of the Unimix, the dispensary had checked 90 children for malnutrition.
Kenya Red Cross National Executive Council member, Hon. Laban Kitele, commended Safaricom for the humanitarian gesture under the drought appeal, adding that the company’s corporate social responsibility programme had made a great diff erence in most parts of the country.
The Society’s Head of Disaster Management, Abdinoor Mohamed, told the gathering that at least 12,000 bags of rice, 4,000 bags of maize and 5,000 bags of Unimix had been received by KRC from the Government. Kenya Red Cross Secretary General, Abbas Gullet (left) receives a cheque from the Safaricom Foundation Head of Legal and Regulatory Aff airs, Nzioka Waitwa. Photos/Jacob Murimi Safaricom Company Ltd donated to the Kenya Red Cross 100MT of food to be distributed in the drought- aff ected areas. The company also donated Sh11 million for rehabilitation of Katalwa borehole in Mwingi District.
On 29th January 2009, the staff of Safaricom Company Ltd and Kenya Red Cross distributed Unimix to hundreds of children, mainly in pre-unit and primary schools, in Yatta District, Eastern Province.
Daniel Kimeu, the Nursing Offi cer at Eendei Dispensary A donation of Unimix from Safaricom Foundation in Yatta District. Photo/Jacob Murimi in Kithyoko Location said approximately a third of the 10 Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 1
2 Nyeri
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RedCourt Hotel Photos: 1-2 Red Court Hotel phase two Photos: 3-4 RedCourt Nyeri Hotel. Situated off Othaya Road, opposite Ruring’u Stadium, RedCourt Nyeri is the latest bud off the RedCourt Hotel brand. Ideal for team building, weddings and conferences. The RedCourt Nyeri has two meeting rooms 4 and two syndicate rooms with a state-of-the-art business centre. Hotel capacity - 100 persons Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 11 Nation Media Group Drought During the presentation of the cheques at KRC Headquarters, the Nation Media Group’s Editorial Director, Mr Wangethi Mwangi, thanked the Society for a commendable job in tackling the drought.
Kenya Red Cross Deputy Secretary General, Dr James Kisia, who received the cheques thanked the media for the generous contribution. Also present was KRC Emergency Accounts Manager, Mr Arthur Ogonji.
Nation Media Group Editorial Director, Wangethi Mwangi (left) writes a cheque for the drought appeal. Looking on is KRC Deputy Secretary General, Dr James Kisia.. Photos/Alex Njoroge
n 9th March 2009, the Nation Media Group Opresented a cheque for Ksh5 million to the Kenya Red Cross Society, and another cheque for Ksh103,000 Nation Media Group staff carry a bag of relief maize donated to from the Nation Media Group Distributors (Save a Life Kenya Red Cross. Fund) towards the drought appeal.
Jennifer Riria, noted that the Trust had mobilised the Kenya Women Trust Fund relief, mainly targeting thousands of women aff ected by drought. She hailed the Kenya Red Cross for effi cient infrastructure and transparency while handling various disasters. Riria appealed to the Government to put in place policies to ensure that Kenyans are fed at all times, adding that the country had enough food, but lack policies to streamline production and access. KWFT Chairperson, Grace Madoka, said the Trust was proud to be associated with the Kenya Red Cross in reaching out to the needy people. Kenya Red Cross Secretary General, Abbas Gullet, Kenya Women Finance Trust (KWFT) donated relief commended KWFT for the donation, observing that food worth Ksh1.5 million to Kenya Red Cross, on the drought situation in the country had not improved 19th March 2009. The Chief Executive Offi cer of KWFT, even after the onset of short rains. Barclays Bank Donation Kenya Red Cross received a donation of Ksh11.5 million “We are stepping forward because we are committed from the Barclays Bank on 23rd February 2009. to supporting communities as part of our Community Investment Programme,” said Mr The Chairman of the Barclays Okello. Kenya, Mr Francis Okello, presented the cheque to KRC Mr Gullet thanked the Barclays Secretary General, Abbas Gullet. Bank of Kenya for the donation The Chairman also donated saying the money would be used about 20MT of assorted dry foods to assist populations aff ected by raised by the Bank’s staff . The drought, including the school food was fl agged off from KRC feeding programmes in boarding Headquarters for distribution in schools. Lower Eastern Region. 12 Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 in Kenya Mercy Train
From left, the Standard Group Deputy Chairman & Strategic Adviser, Paul Right, Minister for Special Programmes, Mercy Train initiative. Photos/ Melly, Tuskys General Manager, Frank Kamau, Kenya Railways Managing Jacob Murimi and Alex Njoroge Director, Nduva Muli, KCB Chief Executive Offi cer, Martin Oduor, KRC Secretary General, Abbas Gullet, and Capital Group General Manager, Cyrus Kamau. group of corporate organisations launched an to targeted populations. As part of the agreement, Kenya Ainitiative to raise money and food to help thousands Railways in collaboration with the Rift Valley Railways of Kenyans aff ected by drought. pledged to drop off the relief consignments to areas within their network. Through the initiative, the Standard Group, Tuskys Supermarkets, Capital FM, KCB and Kenya Railways aim The ‘Mercy Train’ initiative drop off points are in Tuskys to raise food and cash worth Ksh20 million, to feed the Supermarkets. The train journey starts from Nairobi to starving people in a campaign dubbed ‘Tuungane Tuokoe Mombasa, stopping to drop off food in areas seriously Maisha’ During the function, on 5th March 2009, held at aff ected by drought. I&M Building, the shareholders agreed to channel the Partners in the initiative donated over Ksh6m, while KTN donations through the Kenya Red Cross for distribution pledged to donate airtime worth Ksh5m. Bamburi Cement Donation Bamburi Cement donated Ksh4 million to the Kenya Red Cross (KRC) towards the drought appeal. During a brief ceremony at KRC Headquarters on 30th March 2009, the Bamburi Cement Managing Director, Mr Hussein Mansi, hailed the relationship between the Society and the cement company saying the two institutions had partnered in diverse projects during the last fi ve years.
Mr Mansi pledged more support to enable KRC come up with long-term solutions to drought-related issues. Bamburi Cement Company also donated Ksh1 million to KRC through the ‘Mercy Train’ initiative.
The Society’s Deputy Secretary General, Dr James Kisia, thanked the Bamburi Cement Company for the Bamburi Cement Company MD, Hussein Mansi (left) presents a cheque to KRCS Deputy SG, Dr James Kisia. Right, KRCS Head of generous donation and its involvement in various Disaster Management, Abdinoor Mohamed and Mr Mansi, fl ag off a corporate social responsibility activities. truck carrying relief food donated by Bamburi Company.
“The solution to famine is beyond provision of food. There is need to review policies to ensure water harvesting during rainy seasons. Farmers should be empowered to produce food cheaply as a way to eradicate perennial famine,” said Dr Kisia.
Kenya Red Cross Head of Disaster Management, Abdinoor Mohamed, noted that drought had caused devastating impact on people’s lives.
Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 13 Don
H.E. President Mwai Kibaki presents a cheque to ABC Bank American Women Association KRCS Secretary General, Abbas Gullet (left).
Nation Media Group Banson Travel Com21
Davis&Shirtliff ABC Bank Equity Bank
Heritage Insurance Housing Finance Company of Kenya Hindu Council of Kenya
14 Reach Outt Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 ations
Longhorn Publishers Imperial Bank I&M Bank
Magnet Venture Kenya Orient Insurance Juja Preparatory and Senior School
Nairobi Stock Exchange Mutui Museo New KCC
Manish Nigerian Community Noonkopir Secondary School
Reach Outt Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 1515 Donations
Jabavu Adventist residents Rising Star Rotary International
St Austine Academy Steadman Staff Studio Owners
UAP Insurance Uchumi Supermarket Uthiru Girls School
Virgin Atlantic World Agroforestry IFRC, Nairobi staff
1616 Reach Outt Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 Donations THANK YOU FOR YOUR DONATION Kenya Red Cross wishes to thank the following institutions and individuals for the generous donations towards the Drought Appeal launched in January 2009. Government of Kenya Hass Petroleum The Steadman Group Ltd Staff Humanitarian Agencies Heritage Insurance Tile & Carpet Ltd American Red Cross Heten Data Track It Ltd. Australian Red Cross Hill Park Hotel Trade De Bureau IFRC Staff Hindu Council of Kenya UAP Insurance International Federation of the Red Cross Holiday Inn Hotel Unga Limited –Horn of Africa Appeal Hotel Plan United Nations Kenya staff Initiative Jabavu Adventist residents UNEP STAFF Media Judiciary Department Village Markets Kids Club Media Owners Association (Partner) Kamba Women’s Group Virgin Atlantic Nation Media Group Kentours Sacco Ltd World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF) Radio Africa Group (Partner) Kenya Association of Travel Agents Zain, Mombasa Standard Group Kenya Association of Manufacturers Studio Owners, Nairobi Kenya Orient Research and Academic Institutions Kentech Data Ltd. Codsad Community-Daystar University Other Partners Kenya Wildlife Sacco Compit School Mercy Train Initiative (Partner) Kenya Women Finance Team International School of Kenya Nakumatt Supermarkets Kimani and Michuki Advocates Juja Prepatory and Senior School Uchumi Supermarkets Kimisitu Sacco Kenyatta University Students Initiative Tusky’s Supermarkets LALJI Kilimani Junior Lomson Company Mkaimurungnya Secendoray School Banks Longhorn Publishers Musa Gitau Primary School ABC Bank Maendeleo ya Wanawake New York City Department of Education Barclays Bank of Kenya Magnate Ventures Ltd Noonkopir Girls Secondary Barclays Bank of Kenya Staff Mantrac Kenya Ltd Riara Group of schools Barclays Buruburu Staff Message Labs Africa Rosslyn Academy Elementary School Barclays PAIS Millenium Swift Wings – Kipkaren Exotic St. Austin’s Academy Barclays Eastleigh Branch Farm Top Chefs Culinary Institute Co-operative bank of Kenya Mitsumi Computer Garage Ltd Universities of Nairboi, Kenyatta University, Cooperative Bank of Kenya, Githurai Branch Mombasa and Coast Tourist Association J.K.U.A.T Eco Bank Kenya Ltd. Mutui Museo Initiative Uthiru Girls School Equity Bank-Projects and PMO Dept. Nairobi Ecumenical Group Equity Eastleigh Branch Nairobi Stock Exchange Individuals Housing Finance Nanak Trucking Mr. Abdirahman Abdillahi Imperial Bank Ltd Nestle Kenya Ltd Ms. Agneta Okoba I&M Bank New KCC Ltd Mr. Ahmed Mohamed Osman Ayub Standard Chartered Bank Okoa Maisha Initiative Mr. Andreas Erich Rhode Victoria Commercial Bank Orbit Chemicals Ltd. Ms. Ann Palmer & Susan Haworth Osho Chemicals Mr. Ben Ngugi and Friends Organisations/Institutions/Associations P.E.V.U Komarock Mr. Charles Kinya A.P. Moller – Maersk Group Pangani Oriental Wholesalers Ms. Doris Wanjiru Kinuthia AAR Holdings Limited Parminder Singh Sandhu Mr. Elija Migwi Africa Population and Health Research Pipe Manufacturers Mr. Furhana Nordin Centre Planning and Interiors Ltd Ms. Jamila Manji Aga Khan Council Premier Ltd. Mr. Joel Kuria American Women’s Association Prochem Industries Ltd Mr. Kundan Doshi Ashut Engineers Portcross Mr. and Mrs. Kanyi Assa Abloy Pwani Oil Company Ms. Lydia Lelo Auto Village Ramgharia Youth Association Mr. Mahesh Patel Bamburi Cement Rockwell Dr. Rajnikant Veghela Beba Beba Artists Resolution Health Mr. and Mrs. N. Merali Brookside Andy School Rotary Club Hon. Mohammed Hussein Bunson Travel Safaricom Foundation Mr. Njeru Kirira Carmax E.A. LTD Safaricom Staff Mr. Patrick Muteketho Chevron Kenya Limited Sarova White Sands Hotel Mr. Peter Kenneth Com Twenty Limited Shelter Afrique Mr. Peter Njagi Complete Credit Ltd. Shree Wanza Union Mr. Stephen Mwikigi Concern Worldwide Soloh Worldwide International Mr. Surjit K. Davatwal Creative Innovation S.S. Jain Sangh Crown Paints South African Airways Crystal Valuers South Indian Cultural Community Drought Appeal Data Davis and Shirtliff Sparks Self Help Group Target pop = 2.5 million Debenham & Fear Ltd. St Anne Small Christian Community Total Appeal = Ksh1.8 billion Diani Flowers Symbion International DHL Tayiana Garden Spa Ltd Status of Donations Donholm Parish Tonoworks Steel Ltd. Food Received & Distributed= 3900MT East Mart Eastleigh The Cameroonian Community Express Travel Cash donations = Ksh88,365,403 Friends of the Hungry – Wilson Charter Gathani Ltd. Gelati Ltd. This list covers January-March 2009 donations. Another list Gikomba Youth Group of donors will be published in the next edition of Reach Out Glaxosmithkline newsletter.
Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 17 Nakumatt Fire By MICHAEL AYABEI ednesday 28th WFebruary 2009 is a day that will linger in my mind for a long time. I had planned my day’s activities with community members in Mathare, KRC staff , Mike Ayabei, consoles a KRC personnel during recovery eff orts at Nakumatt building distraught relative of a victim of Nairobi. As we were about Nakumatt fi re tragedy to start the second phase of the day’s activities, I the DRT team into four groups, covering all corners of the received a phone call from a Nairobi Branch volunteer. building. Usually, the DRT team works in four major groups of between fi ve to six members. Fortunately, the DRT “Mike, there has been a loud blast in the CBD, members are trained in First Aid, Disaster Management and smoke is all over the streets,” he exclaimed. Fire Safety. These skills came in handy during the tragedy. He went on to say he did not know the exact location of the blast. I quickly assembled a disaster response team As the fi re brigade teams fought the fi re, the DRT team of about 24 volunteers and left Mathare community, provided support in First Aid and logistics. The public hurrying to the Kenya Red Cross Headquarters expected much from the Kenya Red Cross team - in South C, wondering what the matter was. perhaps a miracle of some kind. I remember hearing a telephone conversation that raised my eyebrows. The KRC landcruiser was literally fl ying along Mombasa The caller said, “Fire brigade wako hapa, lakini sasa Red road with sirens blaring, only to be caught up in Cross wamefi ka”. (Fire Brigade is here, but Red Cross the famous traffi c jam. Fortunately, the response has arrived) – may be hopeful we could do something team was recognised as the ambulance weaved better to save the situation. The fi re raged on, consuming through the traffi c jam towards the city centre. the former busy supermarket from all corners.
I followed closely in a private car after placing the Kenya Red After the fi re was put out on the second day, the Cross sticker on the car’s bonnet. I also switched on the head response teams started the hardest part of the operation lights, using whatever means possible, I raced behind the - retrieval of bodies. Initial reports had indicated that landcruiser. By this time, we had learnt that the Nakumatt the building was fully evacuated immediately after Downtown supermarket in the city center was on fi re. it caught fi re. This was not the case, some people were trapped inside. Accompanied with a pathologist The DRT advance team from Mathare arrived at the and forensic experts, the DRT team started digging scene in less than 10 minutes and embarked on the through the rubbles searching for missing people. I led operation. The number of KRC respondents was the team in retrieving fi ve bodies from the site. Each 124 people, including staff from the Headquarters. time, I encouraged my team to face the task head on. There were volunteers from Laikipia, Machakos, Limuru, Nairobi, Karen-Langata and Thika branches. For seven days, we combed through the debris of the building for more bodies. At times we found victims! Daniel Mutinda, the overall team leader, was in command, It was a thorough exercise. Morning till evening we having arrived at the scene minutes earlier. He reported received great support from the psychosocial support the situation, which I relayed to the Headquarters. On teams who provided counseling and debriefi ng services reaching Nakumatt Supermarket, I assumed command of to the team. It is sad that lives were lost. However, the recovery operations. There was confusion. I divided we were encouraged to have served humanity. Plastic Surgeons in Kenya the country to carry out plastic surgery on the victims of Sachang’wan oil tanker tragedy, in Rift Valley Province.
The doctors (right picture, with KRCS Deputy SG, Dr James Kisia, third left) were two doctors from France, Chateua Frianjais (Plastic Surgeon) and Ainaud Pierie (Anaesthetic and Burn Specialist) who travelled to Nakuru where at least 50 patients were to benefi t from their services. Others were doctors from India, Dr M.F. Sheikh (Plastic Surgeon), Dr Manar Swri (Plastic Surgeon) and Dr Nitin Parmar (Surgeon) all from Ahmedabad. Dr Sheikh was at Kenyatta National Hospital where some 25 patients had been admitted, while his colleagues joined some French doctors in Nakuru. Two other doctors from New Delhi, India, were Kenya Red Cross Society coordinated and provided logistical also in Nakuru for reconstructive surgery on victims of the support to doctors from France and India, who arrived in oil tanker explosion that occurred on 31st January 2009. 18 Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 Facts About Blood By SYLVIA KHAMATI id you know that every 10 minutes, Dsomeone in Kenya needs blood? Just why does one need blood in his body. Blood is life.
Blood as Therapy Blood transfusion is regularly used in case of surgery, trauma, gastrointestinal bleeding and childbirth to replace major blood loses. Cancer patients often require blood transfusion. Some genetic disorders aff ect the blood such as thalassaemia and sickle cell anaemia. The shape of the blood cells may be aff ected, leading to their impaired functioning and consequent destruction. Persons with these disorders require regular supplies of safe blood to replace their defi cient blood.
The blood used for transfusion must come from healthy people with healthy blood. Blood is not only a living tissue but is also a renewable one, with healthy people having the mechanism to make more blood. By donating blood, the gift of life can be given easily without fear of regular blood donation weakening a person, leading to impotency or hastening the ageing process.
Blood Components Whole blood is still frequently used for transfusion, particularly where blood services have limited facilities and resources, but the processing of units of whole blood into their constituent components is becoming common. Depending on their clinical condition, most patients need only one component or product, thus this process enables a unit of whole blood used for more patients.
Blood and blood products are also used for prevention of conditions that might result in severe morbidity or mortality. Every minute of the day, blood products are being used for people who are exposed or at risk. In this category fall immunoglobulin, which are used, for example, to treat abdominal functions of the immune system. Many people with Heamophilia lead normal lives if they are given clotting factors such as Factor VIII, a blood product derived from plasma. - The writer is the First Aid and Blood Donor Manager. Fire Tragedy in Busia n 31st January 2009, a fi re was reported Oin Nambale Division, in Busia District. The fi re was caused by children who were burning sugar cane rubbish. There were no casualties in the incident. Kenya Red Cross Busia Branch received support from the West Kenya Regional offi ce. The Regional Manager, Pamelah Indiaka (picture distributing blankets), led the team in the response by providing blankets, mosquito nets, tarpaulins, bar soaps, collapsible jerricans, kitchen sets, sanitary towels, bathing towels, tea leaves and cooking fat. Busia District Commissioner accompanied the Red Cross team to the site. Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 19 Sexual Reproductive Health received positively by majority of the people. This was evident as the people did not mind helping themselves with the condoms available after the meeting. They accepted to watch condom use demonstration unlike in the past when they condemned facilitators and even stopped them from proceeding with the lessons. The team later visited households in Lomut Shopping centre where diff erent Reproductive Health messages were passed on. The team also visited a chief’s baraza in Arpollo. The delegation headed to Nakuru with and visited Sexual Reproductive Health project area in Njoro and Mau- Narok and Lare divisions. Visiting team from Finland and Nairobi are entertained by women dancers in West Pokot, during the SRH programme fi eld assessment. Monitoring Health Projects By NELLY MULUKA team from Kenya Red Cross (KRC) and two By SALIMA MOHAMED Ajournalists from Finland visited West Pokot and onitoring represents an ongoing activity to track project Nakuru districts from 8-13 February 2009 to assess the Mprogress against planned tasks. It aims to provide Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) programmes regular oversight of the implementation of project activities. in the region, which are supported by the Finnish Red Cross. The team comprised the Finnish Red Cross This can be done through routine data SRH Project Manager, Jukka Pietilainen, KRC Disease gathering, analysis and reporting. Prevention Manager, James Mwangi, SRH Project Offi cer, Evaluation on the other hand represents a Stella Chelating, Acting Branch Coordinator Bosco systematic and objective assessment of ongoing Lolem and Communications Offi cer, Nelly Muluka. or completed projects or programmes in terms of their design, implementation and results.
The team visited Sigor in West Pokot where they In addition, evaluations usually deal with strategic issues attended a baraza that addressed issues on family such as program/project relevance, eff ectiveness, effi ciency planning, safe motherhood, female genital mutilation (expected and unexpected), in the light of specifi ed objectives, (FGM) and HIV/AIDS transmission and prevention. as well as program/project impact and sustainability. A role play was performed by the volunteers on In line with the Kenya Red Cross Society’s Strategic the side eff ects of FGM. The audience was thrilled Plan of 2006-2010 on ensuring eff ective monitoring and participated actively in the talks that followed. and evaluation of project activities, the Health and After the sensitisation session, a box containing Social Services Department with support from the 6,000 pieces of condoms were distributed to the International Federation of the Red Cross/Crescent Societies (IFRC), Zone offi ces, trained two Programme participants who also asked many questions. Assistants in Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS).
From the discussions at the baraza, it was clear that During the training, they were taken through sessions FGM is highly regarded as a cultural practice in the on development of data collection tools and also how region. An old man furiously interrupted the meeting to analyse the data collected, so as to generate reports. saying, “If you people don’t want to get circumcised, The branches have shared the tools with their Programme and then go to where the practice is not done”. Assistants who are in the process of coming up with one data Acceptance of condom use and education was, however, collection tool that can be used by all the branches and this will also help cross reference among the diff erent branches.
A monitoring and evaluation session A public meeting to sensitise community members on SRH issues.
20 Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 Japanese Goodwill Ambassador he Japanese Red TCross Society (JRCS) Goodwill Ambassador, Norika Fujiwara, arrived in Kenya on 19th March 2009 and toured Isiolo District where the Japanese Red Cross is supporting the Integrated Health Outreach Project (IHOP). Norika standing with village women and children.
Ms Fujiwara (pictured) that is crucial for preventing communicable diseases for performs in TV dramas children . After that I visited the primary school in Isiolo and movies. She is a master of entertainment events, for interacting with children through drawing, folding a reporter of sports, CM spot appearance for various paper (Origami), drama, poem, and dance. I could fi nd companies such as pharmaceutical and food companies. children’s energy and will through their performances. Her charitable activities include volunteership in the I was very amazed by their power and brightness. Great Hanshin Earthquake in Japan in 1995, visit to Afghanistan in 2001, photo exhibition of Afghanistan In Eskot village, I interviewed a mother who had been in 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005 and 2007 in Japan. benefi ted by IHOP support. In this village, there is She addressed the media in Nairobi, on 24th March no doctor, no nurse, and no medical service. Instead, 2009. The following are excerpts from her speech: there are fear and diffi culties for pregnant mothers. When she was in a full month, she had a problem and “I went to Isiolo and Garbatulla where Kenya Red asked her husband for his help because her husband Cross is implementing IHOP (Integrated Health is KRC volunteer under IHOP. Her husband, IHOP team Outreach Project). I monitored and experienced IHOP and community people supported to transfer her to activities and interacted with KRC staff and volunteers, the hospital. Eventually, she had delivered a healthy MoH staff , people and children in the villages. baby girl called ‘Red Crescent’. She put the name ‘Red Crescent’ to her baby because she appreciated IHOP In Garbatulla, I visited IHOP Mobile Medical Outreach and the Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement to save her in Eskot village, and I talked to a pregnant mother and her baby’s life. She also stated that she wants her about her condition and feeling about having baby to become a Red Cross volunteer. I was so touched. a mobile medical outreach and experienced to measure child’s malnutrition level. I also interviewed I was happy to see the spirit and movement of KRC staff , with a mother who was helped by KRC volunteers. volunteers, and Ms Maki Igarashi, Japanese Red Cross In Tana village, I experienced IHOP activities, for Health Delegate in the villages for trying to improve example, I joined cleaning up the village with people’s health and hygiene status with communities. children, making a dish rack and a compost pit, Mosquito net re-treatment for Malaria prevention. The support and funds from Japanese Red Cross Society is donated by each and every Japanese people. I paused Moreover, I visited Garbatulla District Hospital to to realise that this support has defi nitely helped and been meet DMHT staff and patients and looked around the useful for people in Isiolo and Garbatulla for improving hospital and monitored the condition of the hospital. their health, hygiene and sanitation. I was truly happy There were no lighting system, not enough beds, and that Japanese people’s wishes are linked to people in only one refrigerator for vaccines in Garba Tulla area Kenya through the Red Cross and Crescent Movement.
When I am back in Japan, I would like to report to Japanese people all about what I saw and felt in Kenya. In addition, I want to emphasize that we have the strong linkage between Kenyans and Japanese even though we have a long distance between Kenya and Japan. Last but at least, I will try to speak in public to Japanese people and society about the situation in Isiolo and Kenya and my experiences on this trip to promote this important relationship between the two and the Red Cross movement and activities which Norika joins a welcome dance by village women and KRC Volunteers could connect between people in Kenya and Japan.”
Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 21 Psychosocial Support the technical support from stakeholders such as the Ministry of State for Public Service, Kenyatta National Hospital, Amani Counselling Centre, Kenya Counsellors Association, Servants of the Sick, and Ministry of Special Programmes, Egerton University and Baraton University, who worked with KRC team. Calming down irate mourners, some with suicidal tendencies, is the most challenging task. However, with mediation and trauma counselling skills, the counsellors who were backed with psychiatric nurses did their best during this time. As they entered the ‘magic’ tent, the level of hysteria was distractive, leaving bystanders in tears and confused. But as they emerged from the tent dispair had been replaced with some composure. It left many people with mixed feelings, even begging for answers.
Support to a physically challenged person Establishment of a Protection Unit By HELLEN MWANGOVYA Kenya Red Cross has a vast experience in protection sychosocial support care is an important issues, dating back to the pre-independence era Pcomponent in emergency response services. At when the Society established a centre for the such times, counsellors are an asset. Their key role physically handicapped children in Embu, the is to reassure, comfort, solve problems (generally Provincial Headquarters of North Eastern Province. known as debriefi ng), counsel and facilitate referrals The Jomo Kenyatta Children’s Home for the Physically for support and management where necessary. Handicapped was started as a self-help project of the Kenya Red Cross Society, Embu Branch. It aims aim was Psychosocial suff ering is a characteristic of most to assist the physically handicapped children within individuals and collective experience of displacement. the municipality and its environs. The project targeted Normally, the displacements especially war or confl ict- children with physical disabilities mainly focal amelia, related could be accompanied by stress factors such tulips and congenital imperfection among others. The as economic constraints, security, breakdown of idea was born out of a realisation that handicapped social and primary economic structures, devaluation children did not have an opportunity to join ordinary or modifi cation of social roles, violence, persecution schools. It therefore focused on breaking the barriers and discrimination, loss of loved ones, unstable and provide a friendly environment for children to learn. - Mwangovya is the KRC Social Services Programme Offi cer and precarious life conditions, access to services and loss of systems of social and cultural meaning.
Mitigation and eventual restoration of these stress factors is key in the rehabilitation and reconstruction process. Mental health is signifi cant in the well`being of an individual. The need to incorporate psychosocial support and trauma recovery eff orts in the early stages of the emergency response cannot be over-emphasised.
Children may appear more resilient in their response and recovery from disaster. However, they are at risk of post-traumatic stress disorders depression and anxiety as well as possible developmental delays. Focusing on recent disasters that rocked the country and whose impact will remain for some time, the KRC Psychosocial Support Unit stood out strongly. Moments after the fi re tragedy at Nakumatt Downtown supermarket in Nairobi, resources were mobilised quickly and in a matter of minutes there was a well-established emergency psychosocial support unit on site.
As the rescue work commenced, a pre-debrief session for the rescue workers was done. Under Providing psychosocial support. 22 Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 Spinning Wheels of Humanity arrived in the offi ce at 6.15am after picking staff from the Covering long Icity centre and started cleaning the vehicle and attended distances alone to service transport requests from offi cers by driving them in a truck, about to specifi ed destinations for meetings and deliveries. In the 1000km or afternoon, an emergency alarm was raised and we rushed more, especially to the ambulance heading to the scene of a disaster. This in a rough is a job that normally lasts between three to four days. terrain, bandit- prone areas As I turned my head to have a glimpse of the casualties and hostile being loaded into the ambulance I was driving, I stretched climates is a my hand to reach the siren switch and sped off from big challenge the scene to the hospital. Having arrived from a food surmounted distribution exercise in a drought stricken area, 400km by KRC drivers, thanks to the public knowledge of away, I braced myself for a night of long work, as smoke Red Cross as a neutral and impartial organisation. bellowed from the Nakumatt Supermarket building in the city centre. This is a typical day for the Kenya Red Cross driver. At all times during emergencies, our supervisors often The driver’s day begins when he wipes sleep off direct responses within the shortest time possible. The his face and ends when he parks the vehicle, then responsibility is normally left to the driver to make sure that takes a nap, regardless of the place and time. the relief supplies reach the benefi ciaries fast and safely.
Other than driving the vehicle, the driver is a multi- As a KRC driver, spinning the wheels of humanity is my tasked employee. He off ers First Aid services to a victim greatest motivation. during an emergency, disseminates Red Cross principles - Jackson Oduor (JLO) and activities to the public whenever it is required. .
Worst Drought in My Life Netherlands Red Cross Youth in Korogocho or Grace Mulwa, he Kenya Red Cross HIV/AIDS Peer Education F67, a widow in TProgramme, Nairobi Branch, hosted two visitors from the Makueni District, Netherlands Red Cross. Ton Hlijzer (Head of International in Lower Eastern Development) and Maria Twerda (Netherlands Regional Region, it has been Offi ce-Nairobi) conducted a meeting with the Prevention two seasons without Assistant and the Branch Coordinator to familiarise a harvest. Withered themselves with the Programme and Branch activities. maize, millet, sorghum and cow peas in They visited Korogocho Altaawon Youth Organisation where her 4-acre farm youth shared their experiences on Peer Education in a slum depict the ruthless setting. A home visit to a Peer Educator was also made. Altawoon drought ravaging is an Arab word meaning united. The organisation’s goal is to many provinces of unite youth through self-help and development activities. the country. Nothing Some of the projects implemented by Altaawon include an seems to turn for the education project, pre-school, library, health and livelihoods. better – starvation is on the rise. The objective of the visit was to asses the situation on the “This is the worst drought in my entire life. I don’t think ground and plan on how to strengthen networking and we are going to cope up in the coming days if we don’t collaboration among the youth network and the Peer receive relief food,” said Grace, a mother of 12 children, Education Programme in order to reach more vulnerable one of them a 49 year-old son whose family is facing the youth in Korogocho. The KRC HIV/AIDS Programme worst starvation in the recent times. Manager, Dorothy Muriithi, accompanied the delegates.
As the scorching sun decimates crops and pasture in the district, Grace and hundreds of villagers have been forced to rely on wild vegetables gathered after trekking for kilometres to forests. Kenya Red Cross assessment team found Grace in her home, preparing unripe cow peas and wild vegetables, for a meal for her family.
“We normally have one meal a day,” she added, her children and grandchildren pensively waiting to have a meal. Thousands of people in Kenya, especially in rural areas, have experienced crop failure and unreliable rains, most of them eating wild vegetables and fruits. Livestock diseases and deaths are on the rise, especially in the arid and semi-arid regions. Providing psychosocial support. Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 23 Amazed, how a lady can manage Unsung Heroes/Heroines was in Mathare slums with a group of Disaster Risk ones as we waited for fi re to be put out completely. IReduction team carrying out fi re safety activities. We Unfortunately, this was not to be until the second day. received shocking news from our Disaster Risk Reduction Offi cer Mike Aiyabei, said The Kenya Red Cross tracing team was on the ground. The he had been informed by a volunteer from situation was tense and the waiting was painful. The sight the Nairobi Kenya Red Cross Branch that of relatives of the victims waiting was almost unbearable. there was fi re at Nakumatt Downtown, As we started searching for bodies, observers could not a supermarket in the city centre. believe that I was in the rescue team. Being a young lady, they kept asking how I can`t handle dead bodies, It We arrived at the scene of the fi re at about was a hard task indeed. But with courage, strength and 3pm. There was chaos all over as the God’s help, I managed to handle the situation soberly. supermarket was consumed by fl ames with the public watched in disbelief. My family was happy and proud of the role I played. Controlling the crowd was stressful They congratulated me and told me to continue as everybody wanted to move as with the spirit of serving our nation with love close as possible and see for themselves. We were and humanity. As for what motivates me, I love prepared psychologically to handle the job a head. being a fi rst responder, It just gives me satisfaction. This would involve rummaging through the rubbles in search of bodies. I camped at the scene of the fi re for - Brenda Alaka two days, consoling families that had lost their loved
Like a Dream, the deadly oil tanker By 7.30pm, all survivors at the scene had been taken n oil tanker explosion in Sachang’wan area to the following hospitals: Molo District Hospital, Ain Molo District, occurred on Saturday, Nakuru District Hospital and St Joseph Nursing Home 31st January 2009, along the Nakuru-Eldoret in Molo. More volunteers and staff from Nakuru and highway. The tanker which was carrying over Eldoret joined my team, bringing the number to 70. 30,000 liters of petrol exploded within an After counting the bodies which had been burnt beyond hour after hundreds of locals had gathered recognition, there were no body bags for packing the bodies. to siphon oil using various containers. We waited for the bags for about 45 minutes, as they were brought from the KRC warehouses in Eldoret and Nairobi.. After receiving the news from motorbike riders from Molo who had rushed to the scene to The Molo tragedy was followed by a week-long collect fuel for their business, I proceed to the intervention in tracing and psychosocial services. scene with a team of 17 volunteers and staff . On During the burial of 89 victims, we were overwhelmed arrival, the tanker had already exploded. Within with the number of causalities who needed First a few minutes, using our two ambulances, we transported Aid, psychosocial support and tracing services. 68 seriously burnt victims to Molo District Hospital. In my career, I have helped rescue people during the Nairobi Good Samaritans assisted us in rescuing people and US Embassy bomblast in 1998, Kyanguli fi re tragedy, Marsabit rushing them to various health centres. Later, additional air crush in 2006 and collapse of a wall in Nairobi’s Mukuru help came from the military personnel who brought two kwa Reuben and the post election violence in 2007/08. , What ambulances and rescue personnel. Another ambulance I saw at the scene of Molo oil tanker explosion was horrifying. came in from Molo District Hospital for support. This tragedy was like a dream. - Caleb Kilande Always a ‘Red Crosser’ n my career with Red Cross, many have asked me what I gain as a satisfaction of helping other Ivolunteer since Red Cross is a non-profi t making organisation. people and making a positive contribution to their lives is a My quick response is to refer them to the fundamental sense of personal achievement principles and especially voluntary service which states and motivation,” a volunteer that the Red Cross is a voluntary relief movement not once told me. “It is a chance prompted in any manner by desire for gain. Volunteering to meet new people and brings many opportunities. It broadens one’s experience make lasting friendships with and boosts his/her confi dence. It is an opportunity to learn people with a common goal”. vital life-saving skills and help others to do the same. It is also a chance to be part of a team that makes a diff erence For other volunteers, the in people’s lives. The simple thought of bringing a smile Red Cross gives them an and hope to someone is motivating enough to keep the opportunity to gain new skills volunteers as ‘Red Crosses’ for life. Once a ‘Red Crosser,’ and put existing ones to use. It is the courage and the always a ‘Red Crosser.’ This is the quote by volunteers. passion that makes them heroes to rush and try to save lives. It’s just an inner drive that pushes me to be there In my conversations with volunteers they have been clear on and just take up the lead in any Red Cross . It’s also fun. how they feel about being involved with the Red Cross. “The - Hasina Nassir Ali 24 Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 Unsung Heroes/Heroines News Brief Teaming Up for a Cause Cholera Cases t has always been good t least 505 cases of cholera were reported in Busia Ito let others know what is ADistrict Hospital in March 2009. Kenya Red Cross happening in places out of deployed volunteers trained in Participatory Hygiene their reach. This has been my and Sanitation Transformation (PHAST), cholera and job since I joined the Kenya diarrhoea prevention and control to carry out Red Cross fi ve years ago. The campaigns in Butula Division and other areas. best time in the Society is when you are given a chance Nyanza Province has experienced three episodes of to help the needy and a chance Cholera disease since December 2007. The fi rst index to work with the best team. case was reported from Mfangano Island, Suba District on 2nd December 2007 at Mbita District hospital. What I do for my daily bread More cases have been reported from 10 districts in the more than meets the eye. region, among them Kisumu East and West, Nyando, Being the person behind the Rachuonyo, Homa Bay, Migori, Suba Rongo and Isiolo. camera, I always fi nd myself covering some horrible disasters, both man-made and Kenya Red Cross mobilised staff and volunteers to provide natural. At times my innermost feelings compel me to humanitarian response including public health/advocacy put the camera aside and attend to the victims. During interventions, clinical/case management, water and disasters I am always among the fi rst people to arrive at a sanitation and food hygiene and safety to vulnerable and scene. The response to disasters allows us to learn as well at risk persons in Nyanza Province. By the end of March as put into practice our First Aid skills while helping others. 2009, Nyanza Provincial records indicate over 300 cases of cholera with six deaths reported during the fi rst outbreak; After every response, I sit in my offi ce to review the footage 708 cases with 42 deaths during the second outbreak; captured. This enables me to appreciate my good work and 562 cases with 17 deaths during the third outbreak. and areas that require improvement. It becomes vital Some cholera cases have been reported in Kipsing during the next operation, especially after discussing Location of Oldonyiro Division in Isiolo District. the footage during briefi ng sessions where participants At least 39 patients have been treated and undergo counseling as a way of managing trauma. three deaths reported in cholera-related cases.
The best part of my work is bringing images from the scene Fire Destroys Houses before the eyes of my colleagues and members of the public. At least two families were rendered homeless after a fi re gutted down two residential houses at Kusumek village near When I covered the post election violence from 1st Litein town, Bureti District. Nobody was injured during the January 2008, I never knew that the footage would morning inferno that destroyed the entire property of the draw much attention in Kenya and the outside world. families. The images we presented to the media helped tell the magnitude of the violence. Indeed, many lives were saved The cause of the fi re was not immediately established, but as agencies moved in to off er humanitarian assistance. was suspected to have been an arson attack. Kenya Red Cross Bureti Branch volunteers responded to the fi re incident I am happy to be part of a team recognised world over for and assisted the villagers in putting out the fi re. Another fi re ‘alleviating human suff ering’. incident occurred outside the Africa Inland Church in Litein on 6th January 2009, burning down two semi-permanent - Jacob Murimi residential houses and two pre-school classrooms resulting in huge losses. - Paul Towett, Branch Coordinator, Bureti
Tracing of Missing Persons Kenya Red Cross handled at least 2,836 tracing cases by the end of 2008. Some 799 unaccompanied minors were registered and 622 reunited with their families. KRC also attended to 25 vulnerable persons, out of which 16 were reunited.
The Society had received 2,061 tracing requests, out of which 1,721 were closed. The Society worked with a number of organisations including ICRC (supported training volunteers in aspects of registration, identifi cation, tracing and reunifi cation), the Children’s Department of the Ministry of Home Aff airs (placed unaccompanied minors in Children’s Homes and vetted the families as they came forward), Save the Children and UNICEF (provided training to staff and volunteers in child protection), Independent Medical Legal Unit (IMLU), and the Social Services Department to provide Tito Okello (center), a victim of the post election counselling and psychosocial support to the children. violence, is reunited to his family in Siaya. - Nicholas Makutsa, Tracing Unit Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 25 Elgon Peace Run Hon Kabando hailed KRC for the relief support and peace initiatives in the district. He also praised the residents for accepting to embrace peace. “The owners and winners of the peace race are you the people of Mt Elgon,’ said Hon Kabando.
The Mt Elgon MP, Hon Kapondi also thanked the Kenya Red Cross for organising the event, terming the day “memorable”
Home stretch: Athletes race to the fi nish line.Photos/Alex Njoroge
By NELLY MULUKA t Elgon District witnessed one of the worst ethnic Mconfl ict in Kenya from late 2006. After three years of blood-letting and displacement of people, a Peace Run was organised by the Kenya Red Cross A lady races to the fi nish line and held at Kapsokwony town on 17th January 2009.
The aim of the Peace Run was to bring adding that it was a day of re-uniting residents of Mt. Elgon. peace among communities through sports. The Chief-guest during the Peace Run was the Assistant Minister The MP promised that there would be peace and clashes in the Ministry of Youth Aff airs and Sports Hon Kabando would never happen. Hon Kapondi also called upon Wa Kabando.Also present were the Mt Elgon MP, Hon Fred elders, councilors, youth and residents to work together. Kapondi, Sports Secretary, Prof Wilson Langat, Commissioner He said Mt Elgon region was the basket that of Sports in Kenya, Gordon Oluoch, Ben Njoga, Senior fed Western Kenya and ought to be peaceful. “We want to belong to the old days of peace and plentitude,” Hon Kapondi said.
He pledged his support for the initiative to build a high altitude sports centre. Birech said he was happy to return to Mt Elgon to continue with the Kenya Red Cross relief aid through the Peace Run.
“We at the Kenya Red Cross are proud to be associated with all communities in the region. We pledge our support in restoring normalcy and forging ahead in reconstruction programmes,” said Birech.
Kenya Red Cross plans to use the funds raised through Marathon winner receives a heifer sponsorship of the run to build a high altitude centreto be Assistant Commissioner of Prisons and Executive Members, used by the area youth to embrace peace through sports. Athletics Kenya and Kenya Red Cross Governor, Paul Birech.
KRC Governor, Paul Birech (left) during a tug-of-war On your marks: Hon Kabando (right) leads his team during a tug-of-war 26 Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 HIV/AIDS: Rising to the Challenge Volunteering for a Purpose By ANGELA MURUGI eing a Red Cross volunteer has been one of the Bmost satisfying and fruitful experience in my life. I have participated in numerous youth activities like community work (visiting children’s homes and clean- up activities), attended training sessions, camps and picnics. It is amazing to have been in touch with the community for the last four years, thanks to the Red Cross.
As a volunteer with the Kenya Red Cross, I got a chance KRC staff distribute blankets to inmates in Nairobi. to visit the American Red Cross and participated in the By FATUMA ALI Chapman Holcombe International Intern Programme in San HIV/AIDS is a health threat in Kenya’s prisons that Francisco, California in July 2007. We participated in training aff ects both prison and non-prison populations. Kenya programmes like First Aid training, leadership development Red Cross is assisting to lessen the negative impact camp, held intensive meetings with the Secretary General of the AIDS scourge through psychosocial support of the Bay area Chapter and other American Red Cross Staff . and dissemination of information to the inmates. This was an eye-opener as I got a feel of how other According to the Kenya Prisons Service, HIV prevalence Red Cross societies run their activities and the among inmates is approximately 10% higher than the diff erent challenges they face in their environments. national average of 6.1%. A study carried out in 2004 found out that HIV/AIDS and TB were the leading Peer education in HIV/AIDS is a programme I have been actively causes of preventable deaths in Kenya’s prisons. involved in. Through training in and out of school, I gained experience in training young people on HIV/AIDS. In 2008 July- The situation is often exacerbated by high rates of other August 2008, I attended the International AIDS Conference opportunistic diseases such as sexually transmitted infections, 2008 held in Mexico City, Mexico. The conference included a hepatitis and TB. The continued spread of HIV/AIDS and TB youth conference and main conference for all participants. within prisons, which are attributed to overcrowding, lack of ventilation, rape, sex, battering and ‘prison marriages’. The organisers of the youth conference focused Others include unsafe injection among drug users, use of on rights, respect, responsibility and resource. unsterile needles and other sharp objects for tattooing. In the main conference, I attended sessions on youth peer education programmes which highlighted the need for Women have less access to health care services in prisons advocacy campaigns by youth as role models and use of than male inmates. Reproductive health care may be limited interactive modes of teaching like role plays and movies. or unavailable and health-promotion materials, information and treatment (including for HIV and drug dependence) are During the post election violence, I was a volunteer in often limited in women prisons as compared to male prisons. the Tracing Unit where we helped displaced families to reunite with their members. This experience enabled me Typically, women in prison are young and many are mothers to attend the International Students Festival in Trondheim whose children either live in prison with them or are cared (ISFiT) in, Norway, from 20th February and 1st March for by others outside. They may also be pregnant or become 2009. The main theme of the festival was ‘Peace Building’. pregnant during their imprisonment, with some giving The South African Nobel Peace Prize Winner, Desmond birth behind the bars. Often very limited reproductive and Tutu, offi ciated the opening on the festival in Trondheim. pre and post-natal care services are available for women in prisons. In addition, antiretroviral therapy is often not Following my experience during the post election violence available to prisoners and as a consequence neither to in Kenya, I contributed to ways of dealing with violence and HIV positive pregnant women to prevent mother-to- the role of young people during violence. All volunteers child transmission. Children born in prisons, especially to of Kenya Red Cross should be encouraged to use their HIV positive mothers, require special care and attention. voluntary experience to build on their future and inspire others to keep up the good work in the community. Kenya Red Cross disseminates HIV/AIDS information through traditional dances, choir, acrobatic shows, poems and fashion shows and training on prevention, safe sex, re-infection, healthy living and adherence to ARV (antiretroviral) drugs.
The organisation also provides access to essential prevention commodities such as male and female condoms, confi dential voluntary counseling, testing and referral services, appropriate diet and nutritional supplements for HIV positive prisoners, information on ARVs, prevention of mother-to-child transmission and home-based care services for HIV positive prisoners while in and out of prison. KRC donates items such as mattresses, buckets, basins, washing powder, JIK detergent and First Aid kits to promote cleanliness and reduce any risk of infection. - The writer is the Programme Assistant, KRC Health & Social KRC volunteers, Angela and Roy, during a training in US Services Department. Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 27 Visit by Uganda RC Delegation Dr Kisia informed the delegation the importance of ensuring fi nancial sustainability of the Red Cross movement in view of the recent economic challenges. “Partners and donors from the North are clearly saying they would not give enough fund in future,” he said. Uganda Red Cross delegation in KRC boardroom. Photo/Jacob Murimi Tom Buruku, Chairman, Uganda RC ganda Red Cross Society Board and staff members toured Uganda Red Cross Secretary General, Michael Uvarious activities of the Kenya Red Cross from 20-24 Nataka, said his delegation was pleased to learn March 2009, in a retreat cum learning experience programme. from Kenya Red Cross as part of peer exchange.
The team fi rst toured parts of North Rift Region, where During a meeting with the KRC Secretary General, Abbas they were welcomed by the Kenya Red Cross Governor, Gullet, on 24th March 2009, the Chairman of the Board Mr Paul Birech. Among the areas visited were the Society’s Uganda Red Cross, Tom Buruku noted that invaluable income generating projects, transit camps for internally lessons they had gained during their tour of Kenya. displaced persons (IDP) and house reconstruction project for the victims of the election violence. The SG informed the delegation of the eff orts made to revamp the Kenya Red Cross from its lowest ebb early in On 23rd March 2009, the Uganda Red Cross members were 2000 to what it is today. “Kenya Red Cross is highly respected welcomed at the KRC Headquarters by the Deputy Secretary organization, preferred choice of many people, no longer in General, Dr James Kisia, during a full day familiarization tour of fi nancial defi cit and is present across country,” said Gullet. departmental activities and income generating programmes. Lessons from Kenya ahead of their counterparts. However URCS will learn from the way Kenya since the recruitment of Mr Abbas Red Cross approaches and packages Gullet, KRCS has been turned around. the First Aid training and services to generate enough funds to sustain the The theme for the visit was, program. KRC has benefi ted from special “Stretching to the next level.” projects targeting specifi c communities. Further, the ambulance system operates Uganda Red Cross team visited a number on the early warning system of the of projects implemented by KRC at the SMS, but fi rst minutes deployment North Rift Region and the Headquarters, within the Nairobi area is a motorcycle conducted one-one session for in-depth volunteer (First Aider) who conducts analysis of each other’s operations. a initial assessment against which the deployment of ambulances will be A number of lessons were learnt. made (it is based on the need to manage KRC spends less time on Board mileage and eff ective deployment of Catherine Ntabadde meetings, which URCS should emulate. an ambulance). Uganda Red Cross DM Regionalisation in URCS is diff erent from will desire and adapt this approach t had been planned for many months that of KRCS. In Uganda there are no within the response protocol guidelines Iago. Finally, in March 2009, a team of Government administrative structures and eff ect them as part of the early Board members and Senior Management at regional level to support the kind of warning and response mechanisms. of Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) regionalisation in Kenya. URCS learnt that traveled to Nairobi for an exchange its branches need to be strengthened URCS aims to strengthen the National visit with the Kenya Red Cross Society. for activity implementation. Society volunteer structure along the Red Cross Action Teams.Also will It was such a successful trip because URCS learnt that it is important to put have to embark on income generating the Ugandan team learnt a lot from in place appropriate infrastructure for activities for the sustainability. The their Kenyan counterparts. Through eff ective response with protocols and planned construction of the Red Cross exchange visits and continuous guidelines. URCS should learn to turn Plaza (Headquarters) will be a source dialogue, the two National Societies problems into opportunities and use of income. This was driven by the many will be learning a lot from each other. that as chance to mobilize resources. This IGAs implemented by Kenya Red Cross. Some years back, Kenya Red Cross Society is a lesson learnt from KRC experience - Ntabadde is the Senior Public Relations Offi cer, was a ‘leaking bucket’ that Uganda during the post election violence. Uganda Red Cross Society Red Cross Society (URCS) was then 28 Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 Public Relations Media in Drought Areas Media Visibility
By NELLY MULUKA Kenya Red Cross enjoyed extensive media coverage Kenya Red Cross Public Relations Offi ce organised a media during the fi rst quarter of 2009, that mainly during fi eld trip to Turkana District, from 12-14 March 2009. The the drought and fi re tragedies response. Below is a media team was in the district to report the impact of drought summary of media hits as summarised by the Strategic and to assess the Society’s activities. The Communications Public Relations Ltd. Offi cer, Nelly Muluka, led journalists from KTN, KBC, NTV, Citizen, K24 and Nairobi Star, together with KRC Lodwar Media Breakdown. Branch Coordinator, Mr Edward Ethuro, and volunteers, during the two days fi eld trip. Media Type No. of KRCS mentions /Media hits Areas covered by the media were Kalemungorok IDPs Print 91 Camp in Katilu Division, South Turkana. In South Turkana, they covered Sexual Reproductive Health activities and Radio 251 interventions by the Society in IDP camps. The projects include safe motherhood, family planning, HIV and Aids Television 121 issues and ante-natal among others. The team also toured an IDP camp in Lokichar to view the plight of people displaced TOTAL 463 by the post election violence and clan confl icts. Kenya Red Cross had a total of 575 media hits during Late January 2009, Kenya Red Cross organized media fi eld visits to drought aff ected areas in Lower Eastern Region the month of February, Print Media published 183 and North Eastern regions. The media covered a corporate articles on KRC, Television and Radio aired 170 and 222 organisations tour of the drought aff ected areas in Eastern stories respectively during the same month. Region during February 2009.
Kenya Red Cross also organised a corporate and media Media Type fi eld tour of drought aff ected areas in Machakos District. A team of international journalists guided by the International 30% Federation of Red Cross/Crescent toured North Eastern Television Province in February 2009 to cover the drought situation. The Society’s Mombasa Branch featured on NTV in an Television 32% interview on the drought situation and the Joint Okoa Print Print Radio Maisha Initiative.
38% Kenya Red Cross Deputy Secretary General Dr. James Kisia, Radio featured in KBC and Mbaitu FM radio talk shows where he discussed the drought situation in Lower Eastern Region. 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40%
The Society has been updating the media on the drought situation in the country. Courtesy /Daily Metro ( /-* )%(5ŏ"! 01.!
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EDITOR: When did you join Kenya Cross Red Cross? MAURICE: I fi rst joined Red Cross when I was in high school after a dissemination session held in our school. I collaborated with other youth in the school in forming a First Aid club. The core values of Red Cross and its fundamental principles made me desire to associate with the organisation. The primarily goal of rendering my services to the needy also motivated me.
EDITOR: Your career with Kenya Red Cross? MAURICE: I was fi rst elected as a youth offi cer of Kenya Red Cross Kisumu Branch in 1989. I was then faced with the Maurice Onyango challenge of activating the youth department which was dormant. Within my fi rst year of serving the Kenya Red Cross, had registered 74 life members and put in place an interim membership of the Branch youth shot up by over 200%. In the team. Although I moved to another branch, I am proud to be same year, Kisumu Branch scooped the fi rst position in National associated with the Moyale Branch, which is currently ranked First Aid competitions Junior, Senior and RCAT categories. among the well-functioning branches in volunteership.
The 1998 fl oods in Kisumu’s Kano plains and Budalang’ In 2007, I was the focal person during the Mt Elgon in Busia, the Kenya Red Cross and the International integrated relief operations. In the same year, when a Federation of Red Cross/Crescent Societies mudslide occurred in Kuvasali in Kakamega, I was the nominated me to monitor the food distribution where overall incident commander for the rescue operations, thousands of people were served for six months. leading various agencies and a team of 80 volunteers. In 2008, I was appointed the Relief Offi cer in Nyanza to That was the beginning of my involvement in relief coordinate relief interventions in the region. I also worked operations. In 2001/2002, I was attached to the Nyanza in Mt Elgon during the relief operations after three years Regional Blood Transfusion Center as a Blood Donor of land clashes that displaced thousands of people. Counsellor. During my tenure, the Center had many non- enumerated donors. In 2003, I was nominated the Acting EDITOR: What Position are you serving at KRCS? Branch Coordinator. Several interventions including MAURICE: In my current position at the Kenya Red Cross fl oods operations in Nyanza (Nyando, Kisumu, Migori, Drought Relief Coordinator in Lower Eastern Region. I Rachuonyo and Siaya) and Western (Budalangi) were have been coordinating relief aid to families aff ected a success, with the operational hub in Kisumu Branch. by drought. In March this year, I was honoured to be nominated as Kenya’s heroes in the humanitarian fi eld. I EDITOR: Apart from Nyanza, have you served in any other was featured on Nation TV a programme ’Unsung Heroes.’ region? MAURICE: Yes. In 2006, I led a team to Moyale for a rapid EDITOR: Your greatest challenge? assessment and coordinated the Kenya Red Cross relief MAURICE: When those you are assisting believe in you interventions in the district. By Kenya Red Cross did not have and see you as their only hope, you really empathise a branch in the district. I was the focal person on the ground with them. Furthermore, leading a team in a ‘foreign’ and carried the society high. Ten months down the line, I community and within cultural diversities is a big challenge.
EDITOR: What are your memorable moments? MAURICE: Despite my limited training in mudslides, through courage, consultations and appreciation of eff orts of rescue team members I coordinated a seven-day operation, while the national and international press kept focus on me for daily updates. Among 62 branches of the Kenya Red Cross, I am proud to have laid the foundation for the Moyale Branch.
EDITOR: How do you balance between your busy schedule and family life? MAURICE: It is not very easy. I am married and blessed with three children. In my 15 years service with the the Red Cross Movement, I have endeavour to make my family understand my assignments under the humanitarian arena. I always Onyango (second left) during a past relief distribution. count on their support as They are the engine of my success. 30 Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 RD KRC Senior Management Staff NOTICE BOA Abbas Gullet, Secretary General Dr James Kisia, Deputy Secretary General Aisha Omar Maulana, HOD, Health & Social Services Annette R. Msabeni Ngoye, HOD WatSan Christine Ngele Mwaka, HOD, Finance & Administration Idris Ahmed, Ag. HOD Regional Capacity Development Mohamed Abdinoor Dahir, HOD, Disaster Management Susan D. Achieng Ng’ong’a, HOD, Supply Chain
KRC Management Staff
Abdille Othowai Abdishakur, Special Projects Manager Agnes E. Kinanu Koome, Training Manager Arthur Omollo Okonji, Emergency Accounts Manager Martin Luther King Jr (right), KRC Secretary General, Abbas Gullet, renowned lawyer, Ayaz A. Mohamed Manji, WatSan Facilities Manager Dr. P.L.O. Lumumba, during an event to discuss the ‘Role of youth in peace building and Benjamin Kioko Kiilu, WatSan Capacity Building Manager reconsciliation’, in Nairobi. Bernard Cheruiyot Langat, Financial Plan & Budgeting Manager Media Seminar Davis Aura Okoko, Disaster Preparedness Manager Kenya Red Cross Public Relations unit organised a media Dorothy M. Anjuri Muriithi, HIV/AIDS Manager seminar for the Society’s managers from the Headquarters and Jackson Kariuki Githiaka, Internal Audit Manager Regions. James Mwangi, Emergency Health Manager Margaret Wambui Mungai, Public Health Manager Key resource persons during the two-day seminar were Rosemary Wanjiru Mutunkei, Business Development Manager from the Public Relations Society of Kenya PRSK, Peter Mutie Sylvia Khamati Anekha, First Aid Manager (Chairman, who is also the Head of Communication National Titus Mung’ou, PR & Comm. Manager Wangeci Mwieria Mathenge, Youth Dev. Manager Aids Control Council), Stephen Wangaji (Vice Chairman, who also the Head of Communication National Hospital Insurance KRC Regional Managers Fund).The seminar was offi cially opened by KRCS Head of Department, Disaster Management, Mohamed Abdinoor. Dorcas E. Wanjiru Ngure, Central - Cynthia Cheruto Gerald Bombe, North Eastern Ibrahim Hussein Mohammed, South Rift Mahdi Mohamed, Coast Pamella M’mboga Indiaka, West Kenya Communication Forum Patrick Nyongesa, North Rift Liban A. Mohamed, Upper Eastern Kenya Red Cross will host the Global Communication Forum in Nairobi, rst from time 15-17 the October 2009. This will be the fi ca. conference of this magnitude is held in Afi Angel Hadassah Faith Githigia of Disaster Management Department KRC Annual General Meeting, 29th May 2009 was blessed with a baby girl, Hadassah Njeri.
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Reach Out Newsletter Issue No. 34 January-March 2009 31 Our world is in a mess. It’s time to make your move. ourworld-yourmove.org