India sends 22 tons of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief items (HADR) in aid to deluge hit Kenya. An estimated 267 people have died, 188 injured and over 2,80,000 displaced as 38 out of 47 counties have been affected in the wake of devastation caused by the floods that have hit the African nation.
The relief consignment is being airlifted today on an Indian Air Force plane that comprises HADR items including tents, sleeping bags/mats, blankets, power generation sets, ready to eat meals, basic sanitary utilities and hygiene kits to provide immediate succor to the people of Kenya.
According to an official statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) the consignment also contains about 18 tons of medical aid, comprising essential life-saving drugs and surgical equipment required for critical care and wound management.
It also includes items required for baby food, water purification, menstrual hygiene, repelling mosquitoes, along with malaria and dengue diagnostic kits, anti-venom treatment and several types of testing kits that can be readily deployed on the ground.
Last week on May 10, 2024, Indian Naval ship INS Sumedha had earlier reached Mombasa to extend immediate relief comprising one HADR pallet and two medical pallets.
Why is the assistance important?
“The assistance to Kenya is a reiteration of our strong and friendly relations with the country, in the spirit of South-South cooperation and our commitment to keep Africa on top of our priorities, as spelt out by Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” says the official statement.
India has also extended deep sympathies to the government and people of Kenya for the damage and destruction caused by the floods.