This archive report was first published on 13 June 2020.
Kenya's restaurant operators are facing a tough time as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to spread. On June 13, 2020, the Pubs, Entertainment and Restaurants Association of Kenya (PERAK) urged the government to take action against entertainment spots that fail to adhere to COVID-19 regulations.
PERAK, which represents over 1.8 million workers in the sector, has been working closely with the Ministry of Health to ensure that its members adhere to the guidelines. The association has also asked the government to reconsider a plan to withdraw all liquor licenses.
PERAK patron Patrick Muya explained that the extension of the curfew to 9 pm should be accompanied by an extension of restaurant opening hours to at least 8 pm. 'We request to be allowed to operate up to at most 8pm, as our operators have their own arrangements for staff accommodation and transport, which means that curfew hours will be observed,' Muya said.
Patrick Mbogo, the chairman of the Nairobi chapter, emphasized that the association is committed to self-regulation and has asked the government to take action against establishments that have failed to abide by the law. However, Mbogo expressed concerns about the potential withdrawal of liquor licenses for all establishments.
'As the country has worked to contain the spread of Covid-19, the sector has suffered the brunt of the necessary measures to limit the spread of the deadly virus. We have had to close and send our employees home, as we all followed directives by the government,' Mbogo said.
PERAK has also asked the government to take stern action against establishments that fail to adhere to the guidelines, rather than taking drastic measures that would impact the entire sector. The association believes that shutting down the sector would place the lives of its workers at risk and deprive them of the opportunity to earn a livelihood.
PERAK chairperson Opee emphasized the importance of the sector in generating revenue and contributing to economic growth. He suggested that at least half of the Sh2 billion allocated to the revival of the sector should be dedicated to it.
