This archive report was first published on 8 July 2020.
Kenya's transport sector is set for a gradual reopening as the government eases Covid-19 containment protocols. Transport Cabinet Secretary James Macharia issued new guidelines on July 8, 2020, to facilitate the resumption of local and international air travel, as well as the lifting of the cessation of movement.
One of the key measures announced by Macharia includes the resumption of the SGR Passenger service, Madaraka Express, on July 13, 2020. However, the service will operate at under 50% of its total capacity, with an extra isolation coach.
The first trip is set to depart Nairobi at 8 a.m and will arrive in Mombasa at 12:45 p.m, embarking on its journey back to Nairobi at 1:25 p.m and arrive in Nairobi at 6:45 p.m. Ten coaches will be deployed with a total capacity of 600 passengers, which is the 50% capacity.
Any Public Service Vehicle (PSV) leaving counties that were previously under the cessation of movement order will be required to have a clearance certificate. The PSV companies will also be required to file a manifest of all the passengers that have travelled to aid in contract tracing should anyone turn positive.
"When they get into the counties, the responsibility becomes that of the public health officers in the county in conjunction with traffic police and the Council of Governors to ensure compliance," noted Macharia.
The airlines operating locally that will be allowed to resume service on July 15, 2020, include Kenya Airways, Jambo Jet, Aim Air, Boskovic Air, and Scenic Safaris.
