This archive report was first published on 19 June 2020.
Published on June 19, 2020, Kenya's Health Chief Administrative Secretary Rashid Aman has sounded the alarm on a growing trend of house parties in Nairobi's suburbs, warning that it could complicate the country's fight against COVID-19.
Speaking at a daily government briefing on the pandemic, Aman expressed concern over the increasing number of young people congregating in groups and organizing gatherings in areas such as Westlands, Lavington, Kileleshwa, and Hurlingham.
"We are aware in certain parts of the city, and we are seeing an increasing number of young people congregating in groups and organizing gatherings such as house parties," Aman said. "This is a recipe for disaster, and it could well be the reason why we begin to see an increase in numbers in some of these areas," he added.
Acting Director General Patrick Amoth echoed Aman's concerns, noting that the resumption of sporting activities in Europe could be contributing to the rise in cases. He urged soccer fans to exercise containment measures such as wearing masks and maintaining physical distance while watching matches.
"We know now the Premier League has resumed, though in empty stadiums. We know Kenyans love football, and my appeal to the young people is that even if you were to meet and watch the game, please ensure that you have a mask on and maintain physical distancing so that you don’t put yourself at risk," Amoth said.
