This archive report was first published on 22 June 2020.
On June 23, Hemmingways Hotel will resume operations at its Nairobi and Watamu properties, marking a significant milestone in the country's tourism industry recovery.
The COVID-19 pandemic had a devastating impact on the sector, with hotels forced to close down in March after the first case was confirmed in Kenya.
As a result, international and domestic flights were grounded, and Kenyan airspace was closed.
According to Alastair Addison, CEO of Hemmingways Collections Group, the hotel has implemented clear procedures to be followed in the event of a positive COVID-19 case being detected on the premises.
Staff have also been trained on health and safety protocols, as outlined by the Ministry of Health.
"As a group, we are positive that Hemmingways Nairobi and Hemmingways Watamu's re-opening will be a breath of fresh air within the hospitality industry," Addison noted.
While the hotel will conduct its full operations, including the use of rooms, restaurants, spa, and other amenities, there will be limitations in place to comply with COVID-19 protocols issued by the Ministry of Health.
"The COVID-19 preventive measures we have adopted in our properties go above and beyond the minimum government standards to offer complete comfort and security to our guests," Addison said.
As of June 22, Kenya had recorded 4,797 infections, with 125 deaths.
