The government urged citizens to donate foodstuffs and other material goods to Turkey as part of an aid program.
Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary (CS) Alfred Mutua issued the plea on Tuesday, February 7, during a press briefing.
Mutua revealed that the donations were necessitated by the earthquake which hit the country on Monday, February 6.
“Kenya joins the international community in condoling with Turkey, which has suffered untold losses due to the pandemic.
“I call upon fellow citizens to help Turkey by donating material support such as foodstuffs, clothing, financial support, and medical aid,” the CS beseeched.
On how the donated goods will reach Turkey, Mutua revealed that his government would create collection points across the country where people can drop off their donations.
“When donating, I urge Kenyans to help with coffee, tea, groundnuts, and other fast-moving goods,” Mutua detailed.
Apart from material goods, the CS revealed that the Foreign Affairs Ministry was working with other agencies to send a search and rescue team to Turkey.
“They have asked us to support them with rescue experts, and we shall try to do that,” he promised.
On whether any Kenyan was affected by the earthquake, Mutua explained that the government was yet to receive any report on casualties or fatalities.
He urged any Kenyan stuck in Turkey to reach for aid via the emergency number +905385020960
On Tuesday, February 6, President William Ruto condoled with the people of Turkey following the devastating earthquake.
"Our hearts go out to the people of Türkiye and Syria following the loss of life caused by the earthquake.
"We mourn with families who have lost loved ones and wish all those injured a quick recovery," the President announced.
On Wednesday, February 8, at least 5,894 people in Turkey and 2,032 people in Syria lost their lives.
