WHO DONATES EMERGENCY MEDICAL SUPPLIES FOR KENYA OIL TANKER FIRE SURVIVORS

Nairobi, 11 February 2009 - The World Health Organization (WHO), with financial support from the Government of Italy, has presented assorted emergency drugs and supplies worth 4.8 million Kenyan shillings (about 50,000 EURO) for the management of the victims of the recent oil tanker fire accident in the Kenyan town of Molo.

The accident, which occurred on 31 January, claimed several lives and left many more in critical condition.

The consignment was presented at a recent ceremony in Nairobi by the WHO Representative in Kenya, Dr David Okello to the Kenya Director of Medical Services, Dr. Francis Kimani. Present at the ceremony were the First Secretary at the Italian Embassy, Ms Laura Caulligaro and the Chairman and Deputy Director for Clinical Services of the Kenyatta National Hospital Mrs. Margaret Wanjohi, and Dr. Charles Kabetu respectively.

Funds for the emergency drugs and supplies were mobilized from the Emergency Department of the Italian Foreign Ministry, through WHO Headquarters.

Handing over the consignment,   Dr Okello said more support was needed for the 148 fire survivors currently undergoing treatment at various health institutions in the country. 

 Dr Okello said that discussions were ongoing with the Kenyan Government to identify additional technical support that may be required. He observed that the country had experienced similar disasters in the past and urged Government to put in place a system for disaster preparedness and response, including a clear budget line.

The WHO Representative also thanked the Government of Italy for its timely response to the WHO appeal for assistance. 

For further information please contact:
WHO Representative /Kenya
wrkenya@ke.afro.who.int