In response to the widespread devastation caused by flooding across Kenya, the British High Commission Nairobi has pledged an emergency funding uplift exceeding Sh143.2 million to bolster flood relief efforts in the country.

The funding injection, directed towards UNICEF, aims to provide urgent humanitarian assistance to the regions most severely affected by the deluge, including Nairobi, Tana River, Garissa, Lamu, Busia, Migori, and Homabay.

UNICEF's relief initiatives will encompass a multifaceted approach, offering cash assistance, Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services, as well as health and nutrition support to displaced families.

These integrated outreaches seek to address the immediate needs of approximately 6,900 households grappling with the aftermath of the floods.

Shaheen Nilofer, UNICEF Kenya Representative, underscored the significance of the British High Commission's support, emphasizing the vulnerability of children in crisis situations.

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"Through the support of the British High Commission, we will be able to provide emergency cash transfers and other essential services to the most affected families to help them cope with the effects of the heavy rains and flooding," Nilofer stated, highlighting the pivotal role of such aid in mitigating the impact of adverse weather conditions on vulnerable populations.

British High Commissioner to Kenya, Neil Wigan, expressed solidarity with Kenya in the face of the unfolding emergency, labelling the situation as "heartbreaking."

Wigan affirmed the UK's commitment to alleviating the suffering of those displaced by the crisis, emphasizing collaborative efforts with UNICEF, the Government of Kenya, and other partners to bolster the flood response.

"The situation facing many Kenyans as a result of recent extreme weather and flooding is heart-breaking," Wigan said.

"This urgent funding from the UK will help alleviate the suffering of those displaced and impacted by the crisis. We stand with Kenya in this emergency and continue to work closely with UNICEF, the Government of Kenya and other partners to do what we can to support the response."

The emergency funding uplift comes in the wake of earlier UK support, which facilitated cash assistance to 1,800 families in Tana River County, alongside healthcare and sanitation provisions.

As the flood-ravaged communities strive to recover and rebuild, the British High Commission's contribution stands as a testament to international solidarity in times of adversity.