KENYANS STEP UP TO SERVE AND SAVE LIVES

Everything has changed in the face of the pandemic

During these difficult times, the Kenyan Diaspora is joining hands to help in the fight against the pandemic and to respond to the challenge in a variety of ways as we uphold our unique culture of Harambee.
Many Kenyans are directly involved as frontline workers – doctors, nurses and caregivers, while others are volunteering in every way they can to make a difference to their communities.
In this article, we share stories of some of the inspiring stories of the amazing work that the Kenyan Diaspora is doing throughout the United Kingdom. Through this article, we want to acknowledge and appreciate them and all that they are doing. We hope that these stories will encourage you and remind you of the strength we have as a community.

IN THE FRONTLINE - SAVING LIVES
​Dr Walter Owino, a retired Consultant  Psychiatrist with the NHS, stepped out to volunteer his services as soon as the pandemic started. He is currently working in a small hospital in North Wales where he is providing much needed medical care and addressing the mental health impact of the pandemic on the community and health workers. In his own words, 'I feel lucky and privileged to be able to continue in a small way, to make a contribution, in the frontline of the fight against this devastating virus.' 

Costa Gitiba, a senior registered nurse, shared an urgent appeal for people to volunteer as a Bedside Buddy.  As a nurse in the wards, Costa has seen his  patient load increase from 4- 5 COVID 19 patients to 8, and can't stress enough how volunteering would ease the burden on the health care workers in addition to offering companionship to the patients.

Dr Owino and Costa exemplify commitment and dedication, that we are also seeing from many other Kenyans who continue to be in the forefront during theses trying times. To them,we are truly grateful.
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DISTRIBUTING FOOD TO  FRONTLINE WORKERS
Rahul Velji Vekeria, a youngster from Mombasa and a businessman in London, has responded to the COVID-19 crisis by setting up a food distribution program operating from his warehouse and offices. Together with other youngsters, he procures, packs and distributes food to NHS staff and other frontline workers.

Vinod Halai, also from Mombasa and MD of Euroken, is leading a major food distribution from Euroken’s Willesden branch (TPN North London office), to NHS, homeless kitchens, old people, etc,. Euroken’s efforts are supported by SKLPC, and Nairobi raised Temple Chairman Kurji Kerai. Whereby, the Willesden Temple distributes approximately 18 tonnes of fresh fruit and vegetables daily to numerous charities including MENCAP – Watford, St Luke’s Hospice – Kenton, VHP Mandir – Ilford and Food For All - Haringey Council.  
The pictures below show the amazing work they are doing and the smiles they are putting on people’s faces.