NAIROBI, Kenya — The aftermath of violence that erupted in January over suspicion of corruption in the presidential elections in Kenya displaced more than 400,000 Kenyans from their homes and towns. With programs temporarily halted and the number of the internally displaced persons (IDPs) swelling, PSI/Kenya shifted their focus and immediately called for a joint initiative from employees. Led by Femiplan brand manager, Sheila Maviala, PSI/Kenya gathered all available resources in an attempt to provide aid to victims and raised enough funds — close to $4,000 USD — to purchase essential commodities needed in IDPs camps as guided by the Kenya Red Cross Society. The donation was given to the Red Cross at their offices by PSI/Kenya staff. PSI/Kenya also presented the Red Cross team with a check of almost $3,000 USD.
The inability to reach key populations and provide critical resources crippled much of PSI’s operations in the country. PSI/Kenya set up a fund to assist any staff affected by the violence. To date, PSI/Kenya has assisted a total of nine staff through this fund.