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The European Union (EU) has provided an additional Sh7.8 billion to Kenya to address the socio-economic impact of the Covid-19.

The funds according to an EU statement on Monday, will target Kenyans at risk of hunger and strengthen measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

“The European Union stands with Kenya during this challenging period and we recognise the severe impact this crisis is having on people’s lives,” said EU Ambassador to Kenya Simon Mordue.

The package includes Sh3.6 billion for mobilising resources to contain the spread and impact of Covid-19 in the health, social and economic sectors through budget support to the government while Sh1.2 billion has been set aside for direct support to vulnerable families and individuals in informal settlements through monthly cash transfers.

Working capital

Another Sh2.43 billion is meant to provide SMEs with short-term working capital, which is essential for them to continue operating and keep Kenyans in jobs.

A furthers Sh600 million is directly for the Safe Trade Emergency Facility which maintains the critical supply chains for trade, ensuring food security and access to critically required medicines.

“Today, through these support programmes, we are making a real difference to local communities across the country as well as in Nairobi’s informal settlements who are most affected by the outbreak, strengthening our partnership with Kenya,” added mordue.

According to Mordue, this programme is part of an overall Team Europe response that has seen the EU and its member States working closely to support Kenya during this crisis.

He said EU is contributing Sh35 billion to Kenya’s response to Covid-19, while EU Member States have already provided more than Sh3.3 billion.