This archive report was first published on 14 July 2020.
With the country's Covid-19 cases nearing 10,000 and deaths rising, Kenya is at a critical juncture. The government's decision to lift some restrictions has led to a surge in infections, and the public's responsibility to contain the spread is now paramount.
As of July 14, 2020, the Health ministry has warned that its facilities are overwhelmed, with ICU beds fully occupied. To ease congestion, the government directed counties to expand their health facilities and ensure they have at least 300 beds for coronavirus cases, but less than half had achieved this by the last count.
Despite the risks, there has been a general laxity among the population, with many ignoring health protocols such as wearing face masks, social distancing, and hygiene. This is a critical moment for Kenya, and the public must remain vigilant to avert a monumental crisis.
President Kenyatta's parting shot when relaxing some restrictions was that the responsibility to contain infections would largely depend on the public. The burden has indeed shifted from the State to the citizens, and it is up to them to minimize infections or risk creating a surge with devastating consequences.
