This archive report was first published on 13 June 2020.
On June 13, 2020, the Pubs, Entertainment and Restaurants Association of Kenya (PERAK) reached out to the Ministry of Health, pledging to cooperate and have its members self-regulate to implement Covid-19 guidelines.
PERAK patron Patrick Muya emphasized the need for the government to extend restaurant opening hours to at least 8 pm, in line with the extended curfew hours.
"We request to be allowed to operate up to at most 8 pm, as our operators have their own arrangements for staff accommodation and transport, which means that curfew hours will be observed," said Mr. Muya.
PERAK chairman Patrick Mbogo stated that the association had asked the government to take action against establishments that failed to abide by the law, but opposed the withdrawal of liquor licenses for all establishments.
"As the country 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," said Mr. Mbogo.
PERAK chairperson Ms. Alice Opee expressed the association's involvement in consultations with the Tourism ministry on how to reopen the sector, and welcomed the allocation of Sh2 billion for the revival.
Ms. Opee suggested that at least half of the allocated amount should be dedicated to the sector, given its significant contribution to revenue generation and economic growth.
