Direct Relief is releasing aid in response to the outbreak of violence in Kenya that reportedly has resulted in at least 300 deaths and the displacement of thousands of people.

Direct Relief’s response is being coordinated by our regional medical adviser in Kenya, Dr. Hezron Mc’Obewa.  Dr. Hezron also is the founder of the Kenyan-based OGRA Foundation that operates health clinics in Kisumu and Nyabondo Districts.

Dr. Hezron reported today that his own office burned down in Kisumu, but the two clinics were intact.

Direct Relief is mobilizing an emergency health kit containing antibiotics, antifungals, antiseptic, wound care supplies, and sutures to the OGRA Foundation clinics which have are filled with patients seeking medical attention.

Dr. Hezron reported that an estimated 100,000 people have been displaced by the violence in the Rift Valley area alone.

A Direct Relief partner since 2006, OGRA Foundation is a community-based organization that provides health care and promotes socio-economic and cultural development. In addition to receiving standard material support, the foundation administers a Direct Relief-supported antiretroviral therapy (ART) program for those infected with HIV/AIDS.

Direct Relief has experience responding to emergencies in Kenya, having responded to severe flooding in December 2006 that directly affected 1.8 million people across the Horn of Africa countries of Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia. Since 2005, Direct Relief has provided $4.5 million worth of medical material aid to Kenyan partners.