Red Cross staff during an earlier good donation exercise. [Photo|nation]
The Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) has launched a cash transfer program for victims of post election violence in Nyanza region.
Under the program, affected households shall receive Sh20, 000 each to help them rebuild their lives after the post poll unrest that claimed several lives in the area.
Kenya Red Cross Emergency Operations Manager, Venant Ngubila said the programme targets 50 households which were adversely affected.
The households, he said were selected based on medical reports from hospitals, extent of injury and loss of source of livelihood.
Speaking in Kisumu today, Ngubila said there on the need to cater for the specific needs of the victims as opposed to giving a blanket solution that doesn’t benefit those who need help the most.
“We used to give food supplies in the past but we have realized situations are unique and must change tact. The Sh20,000 is meant to cater for household needs. Some need it for further medical assistance while others are trying to revive their businesses,” said Ngubila.
The violence which has been ongoing for the last two months has led to loss of lives and property.
The Sh950,000 program will benefit 35 households in Kisumu, 11 in Migori as well as Homa Bay and Vihiga counties.
Duncan Baraza, a gas vender at Nyalenda, was one of the first beneficiaries. With bandages wrapped around his left hand, he narrated his experience at the hands of the police.
“I was in my house preparing tea when they slammed the door open and started beating me up. They asked for my phone but instead took Sh18,000 from my pocket. I intend to plough this money back into my business,” said Baraza.
Another victim Norbert Okoth, a jua kali artisan said he was shot by the police at Oboch while on his way from the shop.
"I had gone to buy mandazi. On my way back home I was shot in the abdomen. This money will assist me to seek further treatment before I return to work,” said Okoth.
The program which has the blessings of Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang Nyong’o, will be disbursed through mobile money.
Every two weeks community workers will report on the progress of the beneficiaries and review on ways to make the program more efficient.