This archive report was first published on 17 June 2020.
On June 16, 2020, the government announced an extension of restaurant operating hours to 7:30pm, citing continued compliance with COVID-19 guidelines.
Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe made the announcement, stating that the decision was reached after discussions between restaurant owners and the National Emergency Response Committee (NERC) on COVID-19.
According to CS Kagwe, the extension of operating hours is a result of the restaurants' adherence to government directives, including the use of thermo guns to screen clients for temperature, provision of hand-washing stations and soap, and ensuring clients wear masks.
However, bars remain closed, with CS Kagwe maintaining that they will not be allowed to operate during the pandemic.
Restaurant workers will only be tested once before opening and not subjected to any other test after the 14-day period unless the establishment fails to follow protocol or an employee shows symptoms of the virus.
