Co-operative Bank of Kenya has donated Sh100 million towards the country’s coronavirus management kitty.
“The contribution is expected to support the sourcing of critical life-saving medical supplies and equipment, especially ventilators,” Co-op Bank Kenya said in a statement.
The contribution will be channeled through the Covid-19 Emergency Response Fund established by President Uhuru Kenyatta in March.
“The Board of Directors and staff at Co-operative Bank is honoured to support with a key cash contribution of KSh100 million, preferably to be allocated towards the purchase of critical ventilators,” read the statement from the bank’s MD and CEO Gideon Muriuki.
The bank becomes the first corporate entity to donate funds to the emergency kitty and has urged other well-wishers to chip in to enable the country acquire or produce more of the crucial machines.
“We once more request and appeal to other corporate institutions and Kenyans of goodwill to join hands and support this most worthy once-in-a-generation fight. We shall overcome,” added Mr Muriuki.
Co-op’s cash contribution adds to the expected receipts from individual Kenyans, local corporates, multinational companies and development partners.
Salary cuts made by President Uhuru Kenyatta, his deputy William Ruto and other officials in the Executive, Judiciary, Legislature and county governments as well as exchequer contributions will also go to this fund.
Kenya had confirmed 142 Covid-19 cases by Sunday after 16 more people tested positive. The Ministry of Health warned that this may hit 10,000 by end of this month, if its social distancing and hygiene measures are not adhered to.
