Kakuma Refugee Camp Holistic Support

Last week, IsraAID Kenya celebrated World Breastfeeding Week! Proper breastfeeding practices are one of the best ways to prevent malnutrition and ensure that infants build early immunity to disease. 

To support this vital practice, IsraAID Kenya has been implementing an integrated nutrition and water, sanitation, and hygiene program over the past eight months, reaching 15,000 refugees and local host community members in Kakuma. A key component of this effort is our Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative, which has established breastfeeding corners in five healthcare facilities - four serving the refugee community and one serving the host community. These spaces are strategically located near departments frequented by new mothers and are equipped with handwashing stations and educational materials. They provide a comfortable and private environment, particularly for underaged mothers who often feel uncomfortable breastfeeding in public. Healthcare providers and lactation specialists are on-site to offer support, techniques, and important information for new mothers.

By investing in the health and well-being of mothers and infants, we are building a healthier future for the entire community. Thank you for your continued support!

In celebration of International Women's Day this year, IsraAID recently honored all the different ways that women around the world hold up their communities. By investing in their skills, knowledge, and education, we equip women with the vital tools to secure a more promising tomorrow.

Nagawangat village in Turkana County, Kenya, has been coping with the worst drought in 40 years. IsraAID drilled a new borehole in 2023, providing access to safe water for over 2,000 people. Akiru, a local mother of seven, is one of eight members of the local water management committee. As part of her training for the position, she learned how to maintain and repair the water system in case of emergency.

“In our culture, women are responsible for staying at home and caring for the children, but through IsraAID’s capacity-building training, I am now among the people who have the skills, knowledge, and responsibility to maintain and repair our village’s water system. I’m very motivated to have the community’s respect, very confident, and very proud that my community can rely on me to repair the pipes and taps in our village.”

Akiru exemplifies the transformative power of IsraAID's community-centered programming. We are grateful for your continued generosity that enables us to support women like Akiru who are building bright futures for themselves and those who are dear to them.