This archive report was first published on 6 July 2020.
President Uhuru Kenyatta has announced the partial reopening of churches in Kenya, effective immediately. The move comes as the country continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, with over 7,000 cases reported and hospitals struggling to cope.
According to the President's speech on Monday, only a maximum of 100 people will be allowed to attend church services, which will not exceed one hour in duration. Sunday schools and Madrassa classes will remain closed during this period.
The President also directed that children under the age of 13 and elderly individuals above 58 years should not be allowed to attend places of worship. Additionally, persons with underlying health conditions will not be permitted to attend church services.
However, the President extended the ban on all political gatherings for a further 30 days. Bars will only be allowed to sell takeaway drinks, and the order on cessation of movement in and out of Nairobi and Mombasa has been lifted, but public service vehicles will only be allowed to enter and exit these areas if they conform to health regulations.
Internal flights will resume on July 15, while international flights will begin on August 1. The President's announcement was met with a mix of reactions on social media, with some praising the move and others expressing concerns about the safety of churchgoers.
LOCAL AIR travel to resume on July 15, International scheduled for August 1; President Kenyatta announces pic.twitter.com/jjcAVUuXnU — TheStarBreaking (@TheStarBreaking) July 6, 2020
