This archive report was first published on 21 April 2020.
As Kenya battles the COVID-19 pandemic, a creative solution has emerged from the football world. Jared Abong'o, better known as Jaro Soja, Gor Mahia's most famous fan, has traded in his branded attire for a new venture: manufacturing face masks.
According to Jaro Soja, the decision to switch was driven by the need to adapt to the new reality. “We can no longer go to the stadium as Gor Mahia fans. So I came up with the idea of making the face masks for Gor Mahia fans with a clear message ‘Stop Covid-19’,” he said in an interview with Nairobi News.
The face masks, available at Sh150 each, are branded with the football club's official green and white colours and logo. This innovative approach not only helps to spread awareness about the importance of wearing face masks but also provides a much-needed income for Jaro Soja and his family.
With Kenya recording 281 coronavirus cases, 69 recoveries, and 14 deaths as of Monday, the need for face masks has never been more pressing. President Uhuru Kenyatta has ordered that every road user should wear one, emphasizing their critical role in the fight against the deadly airborne virus.
NTV Kenya (@ntvkenya) shared a tweet on April 21, 2020, highlighting Jaro Soja's initiative:
Avid Gor Mahia fan makes customised Gor masks in a bid to fight the Coronavirus. #NewNormal @Warungu pic.twitter.com/5To8yAmziF — NTV Kenya (@ntvkenya) April 21, 2020
