In response to the significant floods in East Africa, India took action by sending a second installment of humanitarian aid to Kenya on Tuesday. This aid package consisted of relief and medical supplies aimed at supporting those affected by the floods. Among the supplies were 40 tonnes of medicines, medical equipment, and other essential items to aid flood victims.
The aid was transported to Kenya via an Indian Air Force aircraft from Hindon Airport in Ghaziabad.
Sharing the details of aid, EAM Jaishankar on his official X handle wrote: "The second tranche of HADR material containing 40 tonnes of medicines, medical supplies and other equipment to assist the flood victims leaves for Kenya. Standing up for a historical partnership, a Vishwabandhu to the world."
On May 10, India acted as the first responder in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) by delivering food, relief, and medicine supplies to Kenya.
"STANDING IN SOLIDARITY WITH KENYA Indian Naval Ship Sumedha, as the first responder in IOR, has handed over food, relief & medicine supplies for flood victims to the Government of Kenya," Indian High Commission in Kenya posted on X.
The torrential rains in Kenya have triggered devastating floods, resulting in over 200 casualties, displacing thousands of people, and destroying nearly 2,000 schools. As a result, all remaining schools have been closed until further notice, as reported by Al Jazeera on May 4.
These heavy rains have been lashing Kenya since March, marking some of the most severe weather events the country has faced in years. Adding to the dire situation, Cyclone Hidaya is anticipated to make landfall in Kenya and neighboring Tanzania late on Friday, potentially exacerbating the flooding. This occurs amidst a period of heightened rainfall across East Africa.
The widespread flooding has inflicted widespread havoc in Kenya, leading to loss of life and extensive damage.