The European Union approves €64.4 million (about KSh7.8 billion) to help Kenya cushion the impact of the coronavirus on the economy and the health sector. The announcement was made on June 9 by the EU Ambassador in Kenya, Simon Mordue (pictured).

The financing will focus on improving the health sector, supporting affected SMEs and vulnerable populations, and boosting the trade sector.

In detail, KSh3.6 billion (about €29.7 million) will go for the national health response plan against Covid-19. The share of social allowance in the financing is 1.2 billion shillings (about €10 million).

SMEs will receive KSh3 billion (about €24.8 million) in short-term working capital. The trade enhancement package is estimated at 600 million shillings (about €5 million). It will strengthen the supply chain for trade and ensure food security and access to essential medicines.

This funding is part of the “Team Europe” initiative which aims to help countries outside the EU deal with the Covid-19 pandemic.

André Chadrak