This archive report was first published on 6 July 2020.
On July 6, 2020, President Uhuru Kenyatta announced the easing of lockdown restrictions in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Mandera, citing a 'reasonable level of preparedness' to handle the COVID-19 pandemic.
Addressing the nation at Harambee House, Kenyatta stated that the cessation of movement into and out of the three areas would lapse at 4am the next day.
However, he extended the 9pm-4am countrywide curfew for the next 30 days, warning that the situation could deteriorate and necessitate a return to lockdown within 21 days.
Public transport providers operating in the three areas will require approval from the Ministry of Health on compliance with safety protocols, including mandatory certification.
President Kenyatta urged Kenyans to exercise 'cautious optimism and avoid reckless abandon' as the transmission risk would be higher following the reopening of borders.
