NAIROBI, Kenya, Oct 8 — China has given Kenya a US$2 million grant to strengthen the country’s response to drought and preparedness for potential Ebola outbreaks as the government confronts mounting climate and public health risks.
Under the grant, US$1 million will be used to strengthen Ebola virus disease preparedness infrastructure in identified very high-risk and high-risk counties, while another US$1 million will support Kenya’s response to drought disasters.
Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Guo Haiyan and National Treasury Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo signed the grant handover certificate during a ceremony at the National Treasury on Thursday, witnessed by Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni.
The Chinese Embassy in Kenya said the grant was provided at the request of the Kenyan government to strengthen its capacity to prepare for potential Ebola outbreaks and respond to drought-related impacts.
The Ebola allocation comes days after Kenya confirmed its first imported case of Bundibugyo Ebola, putting renewed focus on the country’s capacity to prepare for and respond to the disease.
The Chinese Embassy said the US$1 million allocation would specifically support Ebola preparedness infrastructure in counties identified as very high-risk and high-risk.
“China’s aid embodies the friendly sentiments held by the Chinese government and people toward the government and people of the Republic of Kenya,” Ambassador Guo said.
She reaffirmed China’s willingness to strengthen development cooperation with Kenya under the frameworks of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and the Global Development Initiative (GDI).
Kiptoo commended China for its prompt response to Kenya’s request and the timely provision of the grant.
“We appreciate the Government of China for its continued support and commitment to strengthening our partnership in infrastructure development and socioeconomic initiatives,” Kiptoo said.
Kiptoo said the grant would support Kenya’s efforts in epidemic prevention and drought relief.
He also briefed the Chinese ambassador on his recent official visit to China and follow-up engagements on projects and other areas of cooperation discussed during the trip.
The grant adds to broader Kenya-China cooperation spanning infrastructure, development, health and other socioeconomic sectors.
