NAIROBI, Kenya Apr 17 – The Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) has donated Sh55 million towards the production of one million protective face masks by the National Youth Service (NYS).
KPC Board’s Chairperson John Ngumi said the initiative is part of the Ministry of Mining and Petroleum efforts to support the government in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, which has so far infected 234 people.
“The Company is proud to be associated with the Government’s efforts to protect
Kenyans from COVID-19 infections,” Ngumi said.
The masks will be distributed to Kenyans at no cost with a priority on the vulnerable populations as well as those on the frontline as the country battles the novel virus.
The move mimics a similar one by the company which saw the production of and distribution of free ethanol-based sanitisers (2 million litres) valued at Sh 2 billion through a public-private partnership,
“To date, over 370,000 litres of sanitisers have been distributed to vulnerable Kenyans across 47 counties,” Ngumi said.
The firm’s Managing Director, Macharia Irungu challenged Kenyans and corporate companies to join hands as the Government tries to prevent further spread of the virus which has already killed 10 people.
“KPC has a financial ability to produce these masks, there are a lot of people who can donate to NYS to produce masks, its up to us to be responsible for others,” Irungu remarked.
“It has been humbling to watch corporates, community groups and individuals put aside their normal business and come together to help fellow Kenyans, without expecting or receiving any payment, for what is a major and high monetary value exercise. This shows the true Kenyan spirit,” added Ngumi.
While receiving the donation, NYS director General, Matilda Sakwa said the initiative will offer an opportunity for youths who she termed as ‘incredibly resilient and creative.’
Involving our youth in this fight will provide an opportunity for increased awareness and optimized solutions for our communities,” Sakwa noted.
