Audit confirms proper use of Sh31M raised for victims of police brutality

Eastleigh Voice journalist and activist Hanifa Adan has been exonerated by Seal Associates following a comprehensive audit of the Sh31 million fundraiser aimed at supporting victims of police brutality during the Finance Bill protests.

On Wednesday, Hanifa publicly released the audit report conducted by Seal Associates, detailing how the funds, raised through the MChanga platform, were utilized.

The fundraiser, which saw contributions from Kenyans and other well-wishers, was aimed at covering medical and funeral expenses, as well as compensating those affected by police violence.

According to the audit report, a total of Sh31,663,580 was collected from 35,444 donors. Out of this, Sh30,296,574 was distributed among 208 families. The report also indicated that MChanga's platform fee amounted to Sh1,345,702.

The report notes that the distribution of funds was based on the severity of injuries, with considerations made for the seriously and permanently injured, as well as the bereaved, in accordance with the available funds and anticipated medical costs.

“The audit of the 'Care for the Injured' fundraiser demonstrates that the initiative was managed with accountability and transparency. The funds raised were appropriately distributed to support those in need, with all payments backed by thorough and verifiable documentation. Overall, the audit confirms that the fundraiser was conducted with integrity, ensuring that all funds reached their intended recipients,” Seal Associates said in their report.

The Associates also praised Hanifa and the MChanga team for their efforts, expressing their satisfaction with the transparency displayed throughout the initiative.

“We advise continued engagement with the Certified Public Accountants (CPA) community to ensure that future large fundraisers benefit from high levels of due diligence and care,” the Associates said.

The report further revealed that Sh10,126,963 was allocated to cover the medical bills of 95 injured individuals. Sh7,767,681 was also directed towards supporting 46 people who were seriously injured. Additionally, Sh2,081,930 was used to assist five individuals who sustained permanent injuries and Sh10,320,000 was allocated to support 208 bereaved families.

The audit also highlighted that ten hospitals across Kenya benefited from the funds to offset the medical bills of the injured.

These hospitals included Nairobi West Hospital Ltd, Embu Level 5 Hospital, Tenwek Hospital, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Athi River Shalom Community, St Francis Community Hospital, Rift Valley Provincial General Hospital, Kentap Medical Centre Communities, Mbagathi District Hospital, and Galaxy Hospital Limited.

The report also highlighted the administration costs associated with the fundraiser. Mobi-Changa Limited charged a standard platform fee of 4.25 per cent of the total funds raised to cover expenses related to receiving donations, communicating with donors, and authenticating and auditing the causes.

In response to the report, Hanifa expressed deep gratitude to Kenyans and all those who played a role in making the fundraiser a success. However, she also shared the emotional challenges she faced throughout the process.

“I would be lying if I said I managed this well. My emotions were all over. I would like to sincerely apologise to anyone I may have offended and hurt intentionally or unintentionally. I love you all so much. I apologize for being on the edge and acting up sometimes,” Hanifa said.

“Handling this was a test for me; I would break down in public toilets and scream under my pillow later. But my God, I would do it again and again if it meant taking care of our comrades.”

She emphasised her commitment to ensuring that no one was left behind, whether in the hospital, the morgue, or with burial expenses.

“I believe I did everything to ensure that no one was stranded and left behind. Whether in the hospital, the morgue or with the burial expenses. No one. Thank you so much for everything. May you never lack, and may the universe be kind to you all always. I’m crying as I type all this. I’m oozing with gratitude. I’m in awe. Thank you so much. I love you all, from the deepest warmest parts of my heart,” sh