This archive report was first published on 26 June 2020.
As Kenya continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, the Council of Governors has proposed guidelines for the reopening of churches. The proposals, which were presented to President Uhuru Kenyatta at a virtual summit, aim to ensure the safety of congregants while allowing places of worship to resume services.
According to the proposals, only 30 people should be allowed in places of worship per service, with at least 1.5 meters of social distancing between them. Those aged 60 and above, as well as those with underlying conditions, would be required to follow services from home due to the risk of infection.
The proposals also push for the banning of choirs and singing during services, with the adoption of pre-recorded devotional songs instead. Additionally, holy water, sandalwood paste, and the touching of holy statues would be banned at places of worship.
Places of worship would also be encouraged to adopt contactless tithe and offerings systems, such as MPESA Paybill numbers or bank account numbers. Those handling cash or cheques would be required to wear gloves and sanitize their hands.
The proposals were presented to President Uhuru Kenyatta at a virtual summit that brought together Deputy President William Ruto and 46 governors to seek a consensus on safety measures to be enforced prior to reopening the country.
Technical teams dealing with various sectors and interest groups have up to July 5 to deliver 'irreducible minimum' protocols to be adopted in the phased approach to opening up the country.
