With the worst drought in 60 years in East Africa continuing and the toll in human suffering rising, the District Governor of District 9200, Eric Kimani, is appealing for help from Rotarians around the world.
On the website of District 9200, which covers Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzinia and Uganda, he describes the situation: “Huge parts of our Rotary District 9200 are currently facing the worst food crisis of the 21st Century. We cannot afford to sit back when some 12 million people across Ethiopia, Kenya, northern Uganda and Somalia are in dire need of food, clean water, and basic sanitation. We are witnessing a human catastrophe that requires the attention of everyone as 12 million lives are on the line. This crisis is worsening and we have heard the denial and blame game. But as Rotarians, it is time to act.
“Many in Somalia are unable to reach the refugee camps in Kenya, with seriously malnourished children abandoned by the roads. We can stop this kind of suffering. We can reach within ourselves and embrace humanity. Every minute counts. Every coin counts.
“A rapid increase in emergency aid is required right now to save lives and protect livelihoods. This will enable people to rebuild their lives once the crisis is over. This human tragedy is quickly unfolding and there is no place to stand-by and watch.
“The severe drought conditions that we are witnessing have created a Triangle of Deaths in Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya, and parts of Uganda, Eritrea, and Djibouti. We are stunned by the scale of devastation. The exodus of malnourished people to feeding centres is shocking.
“While the entire region had experienced prolonged drought, this has been exacerbated by political instability (especially in Somalia) and climate change. But we must address the starving problem first. The hundreds of thousands turning up in refugee camps, or simply displaced from their homes are without medical aid, sanitation, or water.
“The statistics are heart-wrenching: The lives of 12 million people are on the line unless we scale-up the international response. As Rotarians we should work in the underfunded areas such as provision of food, water, and sanitation. We should also carry out coordinated activities and reach quickly to populations most affected by the drought.”
Two relief bank accounts have been set up locally to receive donations and, if you would like to donate directly into these accounts, the details are as follows:
Bank: Prime Bank Ltd, Riverside Branch
A/C Title: Rotary District 9200 Relief Account
A/C No.: 0804808009-KES
0804808020-USD
Swift Code: PRIEKENX
Bank: I&M Bank Ltd., Head Office Branch, 2nd Ngong Avenue
A/C Title: Rotary District 9200 Relief Account
A/C No.: 00200583421210-KES
00200583421211-USD
Swift Code: IMBLKENA
RIBI International Service Committee Chair, Drew Hughes, supports the appeal: “A major benefit of Rotary’s worldwide presence is that Rotarians based locally in disaster areas can ensure effective management of funds, ensuring that the greatest positive impact is felt where it is most needed.
“I’d like to thank clubs that have already donated to the DEC appeal fund, which has made a difference to those suffering in the drought and famine conditions. However, this new appeal comes directly from Rotarians in Kenya, who will supervise the aid direct to those in need, Rotary to Rotary.
“Roger Neuberg, the International Chairman in District 1070 has been in contact with the President of the Rotary Club of Karen, Nairobi, who has sent a web link that shows the severity of the situation.”
Follow the District 9200 Relief Appeal on Facebook and on Twitter.
Hugo Pike, Chairman of Worldwaterworks Limited and Past President, Rotary Club of Chelwood Bridge, District 1200, says that the RIBI-supported charity is mobilising: “1,000 Rotary Water-Survival Boxes are packed and ready to be sent by air to Nairobi where our partner aid agency – Humanity First – will be responsible for receipt, rapid transit through customs, and their safe and secure transport to the Ifo II refugee camp in Dadaab. Humanity First will also ensure controlled distribution to families most in need.
“However, the practical difficulties and dangers to which the first (food) convoy involving Humanity First and other NGOs was exposed last weekend has had to be taken into consideration. For this reason the Vice Chairman of HF-UK has today asked us to remain patient whilst improved security for the next convoy can be organised. Once this is in place, our aid can be sent and guaranteed to reach the refugee families for whom it is intended.
“Rotary clubs wishing to donate are asked to make cheques payable to Worldwaterworks Limited and to send them to our registered office – see www.worldwaterworks.org – or to Rotary c/o The White House, Pensford, Bristol BS39 4NE.”
Published: 3rd August 2011
