This archive report was first published on 28 June 2020.
State House Under Lockdown Amid Covid-19 Outbreak ¶
President Uhuru Kenyatta has taken drastic measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19 at State House, restricting movement in and out of the presidential residence.
According to a statement by the President's spokesperson, Kanze Dena, the decision was made to protect the President and his staff from contracting the virus.
"Movement in and out of State House has been restricted," Ms Dena said on Saturday.
As a result, President Kenyatta has been working from home and Harambee House offices, with most briefings being conducted via Skype.
Only critical meetings, such as intelligence briefs, are being held physically, but under a controlled environment.
Even guests who visit State House are required to undergo intense screening and testing before being allowed to meet with the President.
Ms Dena confirmed that the four staff members who tested positive for Covid-19 are all recuperating at the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital.
Older staff members, as well as those with pre-existing medical conditions, have been working from home since March, as ordered by the President.
President Kenyatta's decision to restrict movement at State House has been praised by many, including those outside of Kenya, for its proactive approach to preventing the spread of the virus.
