The People’s Republic of China has delivered a donation of food supplies to assist a section of Kenyans affected by recent flooding.
The shipment consisting of 40,800 bags of rice with an estimated value of 20 Million RMB (Ksh.400M) handed over by Chinese embassy officials led by Deputy Ambassador Zhang Zhizhong, was received at the Inland Container Depot in Nairobi by government officials from the State Department of Arid and Semi-Arid Lands and Regional Development led by Principal Secretary Kello Harsama.
“In response to a request from the Kenyan government, the Chinese government has donated 2,040 metric tonnes of rice packed into 88 containers. Besides rice, the 88 containers can be used as shelter for families affected by the floods,” the deputy ambassador said
The ship carrying the rice consignment docked late last month in Mombasa before they were transported to Nairobi in readiness for distribution to regions hard hit by recent flooding. The deputy ambassador reiterated that China is ready to support Kenya where its intervention is needed.
“This donation proves China and Kenya’s strong connection, friendship, and brotherhood. We hope that this donation will be distributed immediately so that families affected by floods and drought can benefit from this,” said the Chinese diplomat
“China and Kenya are building a close community with a shared future for the new era. This donation is the proof of that. We would like to continue the cooperation even as we stress the importance of people-to-people communication,” added Zhang
The Principal Secretary in the State Department of Arid and Semi-Arid Lands and Regional Development indicated that the 40,800 bags of rice will go a long way in supporting Kenyans distressed by floods.
“I want to assure you that this donation will be taken to areas affected. There are people who have not recovered from the problems of floods in Lake Region, Tana River, and parts of northeastern who are still living in camps,” he said
The PS indicated that, in Tana River County alone, some 48 camps are occupied by people who have been displaced by floods and require food assistance.
Part of the food, he disclosed, will also be used to support people in distress of drought, particularly in 23 ASAL counties of Kenya.
He said the government and the people of Kenya are wholeheartedly thankful to the government and the people of China for the latest kind-hearted gesture even as he expressed hope that the relations between Nairobi and Beijing will continue to flourish for the benefit of the people.
“The government of China has been very friendly to us. We have one of the best diplomatic relationships for many years. We will continue to cooperate with China in many areas of development so as to benefit from one another,” said the Principal Secretary
