CFK executive director, Hillary Omala, discussed the social and economic impacts of COVID-19 for residents of informal settlements during a panel discussion broadcast on NTV Kenya on April 28.
Moderated by Victor Kripop, the panel also included Diana Gichengo, campaigns manager for Amnesty International and Dr. Kevin Osuri, chairman of Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU).
During the discussion, Hillary emphasized how the COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately impacted those living below the poverty line and working hand-to-mouth jobs.
“COVID-19 has been detrimental to social groups considered as vulnerable,” Hillary said. “That is young people, people living in informal settlements, [and] people with disabilities.”
Over the last 20 years, CFK has worked directly with many of these vulnerable groups, developing evidence-based, sustainable solutions to address their unique health, education, social, and economic needs.
In 2020, CFK partnered with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) to lead coronavirus sample collection and contact tracing efforts in Kibera.
