CFK AFRICA'S
Covid-19 Response

A coordinated, community-based approach to mitigating COVID-19

Informal settlements are
highly vulnerable to public health emergencies.

Though the COVID-19 pandemic has affected nearly every person in the world in some way, those living in informal settlements characterized by overcrowding, high unemployment rates, food insecurity, and a lack of access to basic services such as health care and clean water continue to experience challenges disproportionately.

Families often share 10×10 foot homes, residents travel to school and work through narrow alleyways and tightly packed buses, and without a sewered wastewater system, neighbors are forced to share pit latrines with dozens of other community members.

In these conditions, social distancing and self-isolation are virtually impossible.

Economic challenges further compound public health challenges. Already living on less than $2 per day on average, more than 80% of residents have experienced a partial or complete loss of income since the start of the pandemic. Financial insecurity paired with widespread misinformation leads to poor health-seeking behaviors and further impedes an effective pandemic response.

Our Community-based response to COVID-19

CFK Africa staff have been on the frontlines addressing COVID-19 since the first confirmed case in Kenya. From administering vaccines to equipping schools with hand washing stations and PPE, our approach is multi-sectoral and has evolved with the ever changing needs of communities.
We believe that effective change requires continuous innovation and happens from the bottom-up. We continue to employ a model of participatory development as we respond to emerging and increasing needs resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Our response builds upon our long-standing partnerships with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Kenya Ministry of Health and other government entities, and various NGOs. With 20+ years of experience establishing data-driven, locally responsible public health solutions in informal settlements, our staff and team of Community Health Volunteers are well-prepared to provide support amid COVID-19.
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CFK Africa Pioneers COVID-19
Vaccine Distribution
in Kibera.

In October 2021, our Tabitha Medical Clinic became one of the first facilities in Kibera approved to distribute COVID-19 vaccines (AstraZeneca, Moderna, Pfizer). To date, we have administered over 4,000 vaccines. We have also supported the Kenya Ministry of Health to reach 5,800+ people in Kiambu and Nairobi counties who may have otherwise been unable to access the vaccine. See our work in action.

Promoting Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene

Promoting Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene

We’re issuing household hand washing facilities, equipping schools with hand washing stations, and leading sessions with CHVs and teachers on how to make soap. In response to increasing demand for menstrual hygiene products, we are distributing resources to adolescent girls and young women and preparing to pilot a Menstrual Hygiene Lab.

Addressing Misinformation

Addressing Misinformation

We’re using WhatsApp, posters, murals, and announcements at community centers and other high-traffic areas to dispel myths about the COVID-19 pandemic. We continuously educate our staff to share only verified information.

Collecting Coronavirus Samples

Collecting Coronavirus Samples

Our Tabitha Medical Clinic was one of the first facilities able to test for the coronavirus in Kibera. Testing is free, and our staff consistently mobilize community members to participate.

Counseling Youth

Counseling Youth

In response to rising cases of mental health challenges and instances of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), we offer free psychosocial counseling to youth and are developing a group therapy model for survivors of SGBV.

Sharing Best Practices of Mitigating COVID-19 in Informal Settlements

Sharing Best Practices of Mitigating COVID-19 in Informal Settlements

Our COVID-19 response has been featured by national and international media, including Voice of America, NTV, CTV, ZDF, Nairobi Business Monthly, STAT, and Science News.

Related Blogs

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