This archive report was first published on 30 June 2020.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect the world, Nairobi's Galleria Mall has slowly started to regain its former glory. The mall, which was once deserted, is now bustling with activity as patrons slowly trickle back in.
According to a security guard stationed within the mall, there was barely any motorized or human traffic in the months of April and May. The few visitors mainly comprised of intermittent shoppers looking to stock up on supplies from the Carrefour supermarket, the occasional bank customer, and patients seeking emergency services from the Nairobi Hospital Outpatient Centre located in the mall's uppermost deck.
However, with President Uhuru Kenyatta's recent proclamation extending daytime working hours, the mall has seen a gradual return to a semblance of normalcy. The packed parking lot is an apparent indicator of this change.
One of the new additions to the mall is the 'all organic' Mbuzi Munch bistro, which offers a range of mbuzi treats ranging from traditional choma to the more gentrified goat quesadilla and a variety of flavorful lava grilled renditions in between.
Despite the return to normalcy, the mall's nightlife remains a distant rumor. Most outlets are now closed by 7 PM, and the Brew Taproom, which launched with considerable fanfare back in 2018, appears to have shut its doors for good.
Revelers now either have to make do with the available eat and drink options, get a takeout from the Whisky Shop, or order from online retailers who have partnered with some of the stores.
