This archive report was first published on 12 July 2020.
Defining Moment as Kenya Reopens Amid Covid-19 Pandemic ¶
Published on July 12, 2020
Kenya's reopening measures announced by President Uhuru Kenyatta take effect this week, raising concerns about the acceleration of Covid-19 infection numbers if health and safety protocols are not strictly observed.
Travel on standard gauge railway trains resumes tomorrow, places of worship reopen from Tuesday, and domestic flights are back the following day. Public transport vehicles operators are also likely to be allowed on the road after meeting the new licensing rules.
Residents of Nairobi and Mombasa counties, the country's coronavirus hotspots, have begun the exodus to their villages.
Several bus companies and shuttle operators have complied with the rules, while others are still in the process of getting the necessary certificates from the Ministry of Health and the National Transport Safety Authority.
However, some buses and matatus are breaking rules on passenger numbers, which could lead to a sharp rise in Covid-19 numbers since social distancing is not observed.
Prof Matilu Mwau, a scientist at the Kenya Medical Research Institute, says if citizens follow the measures given by the Health Ministry, Covid-19 will be defeated.
“I will not say we were ready or not for a reopening, but Kenyans must learn to be on their own and take precautions,” Prof Mwau told the Sunday Nation.
Church leaders are also facing challenges as they reopen their doors to worshippers. Some have issued order of service protocols, while others have asked their members to remain at home.
“Following the presidential directive, we would like to inform you that we will not reopen the cathedral in the next few weeks,” a memo by All Saints Cathedral Provost Sammy Wainaina said.
