This archive report was first published on 19 August 2019.
On August 19, 2019, Machakos Governor Dr. Alfred Mutua announced that all businesses in the county would be closed on the eve of the census.
According to the directive, bars and joints that predominantly sell alcohol or engage in entertainment would be closed from 6am on Saturday, August 24 until 6pm on Sunday, August 25.
Markets and shops were instructed to close by 5pm on Saturday, August 24 and reopen at 9am on Sunday, August 25.
Factories, construction sites, and other works would be required to stop operations from midday on August 24 until 6am on Monday, August 26.
“These stoppages and closures are to give workers and others enough time to travel to their homes for the census activity,” said Mutua.
He warned that any violation of the directive would be met with punitive measures, including cancellation of business permits and arrests.
Ward administrators and county administrators were directed to ensure full compliance with the executive order.
Meanwhile, Governor Mutua urged Machakos residents who work and live out of the county to travel home to the county for the census, citing the importance of being counted at their homes for allocation of funds and development funding.
