This archive report was first published on 7 July 2020.
President Uhuru Kenyatta has announced a phased re-opening of Kenya, citing the country's progress in meeting the 'irreducible minimums' for easing COVID-19 containment measures.
On July 7, 2020, the President addressed the nation, stating that while the country has not met the 100% threshold, it has reached a reasonable level of preparedness to allow for re-opening.
As part of the phased re-opening, the cessation of movement into and out of the Nairobi Metropolitan Area, Mombasa County, and Mandera County will lapse at 4am on July 7, 2020. The nationwide curfew between 9pm and 4am daily will be extended by a further 30 days.
The President emphasized the need for citizens to exercise caution and civic responsibility, warning that the nation is still at risk. He urged Kenyans to minimize unnecessary contact and movement, and to delay non-essential up-country travel.
Places of worship will commence phased re-opening for congregational worship and public worship, with a maximum of 100 participants allowed at each ceremony. Sunday Schools and Madrassas will remain suspended until further notice.
The Ministry of Education will notify the public on the resumption of the 2020 academic calendar for basic education and tertiary institutions. Public transport vehicles will require mandatory certification from the Ministry of Health to operate, and local air travel will resume on July 15, 2020.
International air travel will resume on August 1, 2020. The prohibition against social and political gatherings will be extended for a further 30 days, and the restriction on the number of persons who can attend weddings and funerals will also be extended.
The President acknowledged the economic and social challenges facing the country, but emphasized the need for citizens to co-create solutions with the government to overcome the crisis.
