This archive report was first published on 6 August 2020.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect the country, Makueni County is taking steps to revive its economy. In March, the county government suspended indefinitely the operation of markets as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of the virus.
However, with the situation slowly improving, Governor Prof. Kivutha Kibwana has announced plans to reopen the suspended markets in phases. The County Emergency Response Committee is currently developing guidelines to ensure a smooth reopening process.
Speaking to the press outside his office in Wote town on Thursday, Governor Kivutha urged traders to cooperate with the county government and wait for the guidelines before reopening their businesses.
“We are asking the traders not to open now but wait for the guidelines, we know it has taken a long time but people need to be careful,” said Governor Kivutha.
The governor also emphasized the importance of adhering to the guidelines given by the Ministry of Health, particularly for hotels and restaurants. Failure to comply with the directives will result in the permanent revocation of their licenses.
“Those flouting the directives will be arrested and charged. This is a matter of public interest, which is for our common good,” added Governor Kivutha.
According to the governor, 23 people from Makueni have succumbed to COVID-19, and he urged the public to continue observing the government protocols to curb the pandemic.
He also disclosed that the county has 13 active coronavirus cases being treated at the Makindu Kenya Medical Training Centre (KMTC) while 31 people are currently under quarantine.
County Commissioner Maalim Mohammed also addressed the press, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the guidelines given by the government. He warned that drivers of Public Transport Vehicles (PSVs) will be required to have a COVID-19 clearance certificate to ferry passengers.
“No vehicle will be allowed to operate without a thermos gun to check temperatures. Excess passengers will not also be allowed,” he said.
The county commissioner also warned against laxity, saying enforcement of the directives will be heightened.
