Kenyans raised an impressive Sh31,663,580 million to support victims of the anti-Finance Bill protests that occurred earlier this year.
The extensive fundraiser, spearheaded by activist and journalist Hanifa Farsafi via the M-Changa platform, aimed to provide aid to those who suffered injuries during the protests and to support the families of those who tragically lost their lives.
According to an audited report released by Farsafi, the initiative garnered contributions from a remarkable 35,444 individual donors, demonstrating the collective will of the Kenyan populace to champion good governance and support one another in times of need.
The two-month protest movement, primarily driven by the younger generation, called for accountability and transparency in the management of public funds.
In her statement on Wednesday, Hanifa emphasized the importance of accountability in the management of the raised funds.
“The purpose of this audit was to confirm to all donors how their contributions were utilized to cover medical bills for the injured, provide assistance to bereaved families, and support individuals with severe and permanent injuries,” she stated.
The report detailed how funds were allocated across various categories: Sh10,126,963 million was used to cover medical expenses for 95 injured individuals; Sh7,767,681 million was disbursed to support 46 seriously injured people; Sh2,081,930 million aided five individuals with permanent injuries; and Sh10,320,000 million was directed towards assisting 208 bereaved families.
Additionally, ten hospitals nationwide benefited from the funds to offset medical bills. The audit highlighted the administrative costs associated with the fundraiser, including a platform fee of Sh1,345,702 charged by Mobi-Changa Limited, along with credit and debit card processing fees amounting to Sh21,304.
Damning verification processes followed every disbursement, ensuring that all medical bills were authenticated with identifiable patients.
The report noted that many seriously injured patients received support from the Kenyatta National Hospital disaster fund, contributing to their lower medical expenses.
In her message of gratitude, Hanifa conveyed her heartfelt thanks to all Kenyans who contributed, stating,
“I’m in awe. Thank you so much. I love you all, from the deepest warmest parts of my heart.” She also opened up about the emotional toll the fundraising process took on her, recalling the challenges she faced throughout its duration.
“Handling this was a test for me; I would break down in public toilets and scream under my pillow later. But I would do it again and again if it meant taking care of our comrades,” she expressed, underlining her commitment to ensuring no one was left behind, whether in hospitals or dealing with burial expenses.
