January 2, 2008

Rising tensions and violence in Kenya following a disputed election has resulted in the deaths of hundreds of people, with tens of thousands fleeing their homes.

In the western town of Eldoret in the Rift Valley, Reuters reports that about 30 people seeking refuge in a church died when a mob set fire to the building. Looting and fires have been seen in the area following the incident. Reports estimate that between 70,000 to 100,000 Kenyans have been uprooted by the violence in the country, with some people fleeing to nearby Uganda and Tanzania.

Church World Service and other members of the Action by Churches Together International (ACT) forum in Kenya have met and are remaining in constant contact as they plan a response to the humanitarian needs following the violence and turmoil. Members report that the massive displacement requires urgent attention and have already mobilized the following resources, in partnership with the Kenya Evangelical Lutheran Church:

Church World Service (CWS) is providing emergency food relief (US $20,000) for internally displaced persons in Nairobi slums who urgently need assistance.

Norwegian Church Aid is providing emergency food relief (US $28,000) for IDPs in Kisumu.

As the crisis continues to unfold, Church World Service and other ACT members in Kenya will be closely monitoring the situation and determining the best ways to respond.

Media Contact: Lesley Crosson, CWS/New York, 212-870-2676; lcrosson@churchworldservice.org Jan Dragin, 781-925-1526; jdragin@gis.net