Group launches fundraising drive for Gaza war victims' medical needs

Voices for Palestine, a consortium of Kenyan organisations formed last year to assist victims of war in Gaza, has launched a $500,000 (Sh64.5 million) medical aid fundraising drive to support those nursing severe injuries as a result of the incessant bombing along the Gaza Strip.

Speaking at a press briefing at the Jamia Mosque in Nairobi, the consortium said it is working with internationally recognised agencies to help the people of Gaza receive medical treatment both within and outside the enclave through the "Gaza Medical Campaign".

"What we are witnessing is not just a crisis – it is a massacre of human dignity, a brutal assault on the very essence of life. The images we see, the stories we hear, are enough to break the hardest of hearts. The relentless bombings, the suffocating blockade, the helpless cries of children, mothers, and fathers – the cries of those who are not just struggling to live, but fighting to stay alive every single second," read the statement by Supkem Chairman Hassan Ole Nado on behalf of the consortium.

The group, comprising the Jamia Mosque Committee, the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM), the National Muslim Leaders Forum (NAMLEF), the Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK), the Kenya Association of Muslim Medical Practitioners (KAMMP), and several mosques around Nairobi, noted that the war in Gaza has left only a few hospitals standing. Those remaining are overwhelmed and on the verge of collapse due to the sheer number of injured and dying patients.

"Families are being torn apart and dreams are being shattered. More than 42,000 people have been killed in the relentless bombing campaign by Israel, which has virtually decimated the entire Gaza Strip, with many of the victims being innocent women and children," he added.

Group launches a $500,000 (Sh64.5 million) medical aid fundraising drive to support those nursing severe injuries as a result of the incessant bombing along the Gaza Strip. (Photo: Justine Ondieki)

The consortium, which has raised over Sh50 million for humanitarian aid in Gaza since its formation last year, noted that the situation in the enclave remains dire. The blockade from the rest of the world has left the people on the brink of starvation and without adequate humanitarian relief.

The leaders also highlighted that the war has now spread to Lebanon, where daily attacks have resulted in more than 1,000 deaths and the displacement of thousands of people, alongside massive destruction.

"Through this initiative, we aim to raise at least $500,000 for the Gaza Medical Campaign. We call upon the Kenyan government to join global efforts to advocate for peace and stability in the region, and to end the carnage in Gaza and Lebanon," the consortium said.

Supkem Chairman Hassan Ole Nado addressing the press. (Photo: Justine Ondieki)

Well-wishers wishing to support the campaign can contribute via Mpesa Paybill number 150770, with the account name 'Gaza Medical'.

"As we launch this campaign, we urge Kenyans from all walks of life to join in supporting the medical needs of the people of Palestine," the leaders said.

Addressing the Israeli government, the leaders emphasised that the war had reached unbearable levels and must end.

"We urge the Israeli government to stop the killings! How many more people have to die? How many children have to lose their lives? Let’s end the killings," the leaders implored.