MP launches Sh5million initiative towards corona prevention

Thika MP Patrick Wainaina has launched a Sh5 million initiative to combat the Coronavirus spread in his constituency.
The funds will be used in sensitisation, provision of handwashing units, sanitisers, masks and gloves, ambulance services in case of emergencies among other initiatives.
He also donated 200 water tanks to be put in high-risk zones at bodaboda sheds, bus stops, police stations and shopping centers in his constituency.
Speaking during the launch in Thika town on Friday, the MP said the country was heading towards a difficult period and thus the need to cushion low cadre earners who are set to suffer in the prevailing circumstances.
The MP said in case of a lock-down, the government needs to set aside Sh100 billion towards helping casual workers to help them survive the next three months.
He said about 10 million Kenyans who earn less than Sh200 a day according to the 2019 census data, should be enrolled in a national safety net programme.
This would translate to Sh3, 000 monthly stipend of each beneficiary for the next three months.
“After identifying those who earn less than Sh10, 000 monthly from the census data, the government should send Sh3, 000 directly to them through mobile money transfer. This would be the easiest way to cushion the citizens, rather than giving them relief food whose distribution might spread further the virus,” said Wainaina.
He at the same time called for a temporary freeze on statutory deductions of NHIF, NSSF, and PAYE on those salaried until normalcy resumes.
He called on the Chinese Government, as a friend and trade partner of the country to give the country Sh100 billion in kind to cushion its citizenry against the disease.
“They can donate testing kits, gloves, medical expertise among other equipment needed in the fight against the virus,” he said.
Through his Jungle Foundation, the MP gave out an ambulance that will be used to respond to emergencies.
By Muoki Charles