KENYA – Bidco Africa, one of the leading consumer good company in East Africa is the latest corporate entity to provide the much-needed boost to the Covid-19 Emergency Response Fund with a Sh25 million (US$233,000) donation.
The Thika-based manufacturer of fast-moving consumer goods has also replaced its corporate colours with those of the national flag in solidarity with Kenyans going through different challenges in the wake of the deadly virus.
“We affirm our continued commitment to stand by all Kenyans and the world at large to provide unwavering support and together through giving hope of a better tomorrow that we will come out of the coronavirus pandemic a stronger people and a steadfast Kenya,” said Company Chairman Vimal Shah
Among the beneficiaries of Bidco’s initiatives are 6,000 street families in Nairobi who have so far received food donations and hygiene products worth a total of Sh5 million (US$46,700).
The firm has also donated Sh1.5 million (US$14,000) worth of foodstuffs to various households in Kibra slums and another Sh2 million (US$18,700) to various children’s homes around the country.
Other than Bidco, Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL) is also contributing to efforts to fight the spread of the Coronavirus in the country.
The company donated 105,000 litres of ethanol to Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) who are mandated to oversee a government initiative for the mass production and distribution of hand sanitizers.
The hand sanitizers will be distributed free to Kenyans to help in flattening the infections curve of the deadly virus.
“KWAL is committed as a responsible corporate citizen, to integrate business values to meet emerging national priorities and contribute positively to Kenyan livelihoods and the economy,” said KWAL Chairman Kuria Muchiru.
“We are extending our support to the Kenyan government to boost efforts to manage the situation and fight against the spread of COVID-19. Our donation will go towards mass production of hand sanitizers which will contribute to enhancing hygiene and sanitization efforts for Kenyans, particularly those facing water shortage.”
KWAL Managing Director Lina Githuka said the company has also collaborated with a local faith-based charity organization to mobilize resources that will support low-income households with food, soap and water storage tanks in the community neighbouring KWAL Headquarters in Industrial Area Nairobi.
“We all have a role to play and our collective efforts will go a long way in reducing the impact of COVID-19 on our people and country,” Ms Githuka said.
The company, which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary and is a significant contributor to the Exchequer, has continuously collaborated with the government on various other initiatives.
KWAL, in partnership with industry and the manufacturing sector, has also been a key driver in the national fight against illicit liquor and counterfeit alcohol, which, besides endangering people’s lives, have led to tax revenue losses.
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