Highlights of 2008
PEV Humanitarian Assistance
Following Kenya's disputed Presidential election in December 2007, large parts of the country were affected by violence that left at least 1,300 people dead and many others seriously injured. More than 350,000 people lived in camps as internally displaced persons (IDPs) while thousands were hosted by communities. Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) was appointed by the Government as the lead coordinating agency for response to the emergency.
House Reconstruction Project
In January 2008, KRCS launched a project to reconstruct houses for internally displaced persons (IDPs) who had resettled in their farms. Thousands of people lost their houses during the post election violence sparked off by the disputed Presidential election results in December 2007 General Election. The exercise started with the launch of 10 houses in Matharu area, Katina village in Timboroa Division of Uasin Gishu District on 23rd June 2008. A number of wellwishers donated funds to support the project that benefitted the affected communities.
Kotulo Borehole Commissioned
In June 2008, residents of Kotulo village in Mandera District welcomed the commissioning of a borehole constructed by the Kenya Red Cross with support from the Coca Cola Company. The borehole that cost approximately Ksh8.5 million will serve some 4,000 people and 3,000 livestock in Kotulo and outlying areas. The 300m deep borehole yields 60,000 litres of water a day. Red Cross Goodwill Ambassador A renowned Public Relations Consultant, Mrs Gina Din-Kariuki, was appointed the first Kenya Red Cross Goodwill Ambassador. Her appointment was made during a colourful press conference on 19th August 2008.