The Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF): A Longtime partner, standing with Amref to tackle the toughest challenges

The recent floods in Kenya have triggered a humanitarian crisis, impacting hundreds of thousands of people and endangering their health and safety. In response to this emergency, the support from the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) is playing a crucial role in strengthening Amref Health Africa’s efforts, enabling the rapid deployment of health interventions to reach the most vulnerable communities.

The Emergency Context

The floods, which have devastated 43 counties across Kenya, have destroyed homes, infrastructure, and essential services. More than 293,000 people have been displaced, with rising cases of waterborne diseases such as cholera. The country’s already fragile healthcare system has been severely compromised, making it difficult to ensure care for those displaced.

The Support from the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF)

Thanks to SNF’s timely support, Amref has been able to bolster its emergency response, working closely with local authorities to tackle the crisis. Through SNF’s contribution, more than 55,000 people are expected to be directly reached, with an additional 137,000 people benefiting indirectly in highly affected areas such as Nairobi and Machakos.

Amref has ensured the continuity of basic healthcare services through mobile clinics and temporary health camps, delivering essential care to pregnant women, newborns, and children, alongside critical vaccines and medications to prevent infectious diseases and manage chronic conditions. This immediate intervention has been pivotal in curbing the spread of waterborne diseases. Efforts include the distribution of 40,000 water purification tablets, water storage tanks, and hygiene products, including dignity kits for women. These measures have improved sanitary conditions and reduced the risk of outbreaks like cholera.

Another critical aspect of this initiative has been the provision of mental health support for frontline healthcare workers, offering psychological assistance and counseling to help them cope with the stress and trauma of responding to the crisis.

Reflecting on their commitment, SNF Program Officer Aurélie Avice said, “In their tireless work to expand access to quality mental and primary health care, Amref responds with the speed to meet real needs in real time and the vision to proactively promote health and wellbeing, whether for people who have experienced displacement or for frontline health workers. We at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) are very proud to be able to offer Amref our support.“

A Lasting Impact

SNF’s support has allowed Amref not only to address the immediate emergency but also to look ahead, contributing to the prevention of future health crises. By promoting safe hygiene practices and strengthening surveillance systems, this partnership is making a lasting impact on the affected communities.

The collaboration between Amref and SNF is a testament to how a longstanding partnership can make a significant difference in times of emergency. In fact, this synergy is not new: SNF has supported various Amref projects over the years, including critical interventions in South Sudan, addressing mental health in crisis settings. Their support for the response to the floods in Kenya further solidifies the bond between the two organizations, united in their shared mission to improve the health and well-being of Africa’s most vulnerable communities.