This archive report was first published on 16 June 2020.
As Kenya takes steps towards reopening its markets, the Government has issued guidelines to help minimize the spread of Covid-19 and enable businesses to resume operations.
Published on June 16, 2020, the guidelines emphasize the importance of social distancing, hygiene, and cashless transactions in marketplaces.
According to the guidelines, only a few shoppers will be permitted to enter markets at one time, with vendors required to place their stalls far apart from each other. To decongest open-air markets, some vendors will be moved to public spaces such as fields, while those who deliver food in trucks or mini-vans will be encouraged to sell directly to consumers in estates.
Random temperature checks will be conducted in all markets, with a high temperature being one of the symptoms of coronavirus infection. Buyers and sellers are also encouraged to use cashless payment systems, with hard cash only being exchanged when absolutely necessary and when both parties are wearing gloves.
Additionally, vendors are required to display their wares on raised platforms, wear gloves or wash their hands frequently, and display their wares on raised platforms. Markets with built-up infrastructure will need to be fumigated before traders set up their wares, while open-air markets will need to be disinfected before each market day.
The guidelines also discourage the cutting of fruit and vegetables in markets, with buyers expected to cut their produce at home or do without it. Bags will also need to be disinfected before entering the market.
