This archive report was first published on 21 April 2020.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to spread globally, Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua has taken a bold step to contain the disease in his county. On April 21st, he announced a ban on alcohol distribution in Machakos, effective from April 22nd to May 31st.
The decision was made in consultation with the Machakos County COVID-19 Emergency committee, which recommended the measure to prevent the spread of the virus.
According to Governor Mutua, the ban aims to complement the government's efforts to contain the disease, which has already claimed 14 lives in Kenya. The country has also implemented a dusk-to-dawn curfew and a cessation of movement into and out of Nairobi, Mombasa, Kwale, and Kilifi counties, which have the highest number of positive cases.
Under the ban, vehicles found ferrying alcohol supplies will be impounded if found to be contravening the order. The decision will be reviewed depending on the compliance by bar owners and residents to current laws and regulations.
Kenya had reported 296 COVID-19 cases by April 21st, with Machakos being one of the affected areas. The ban is a significant measure to prevent the spread of the virus in the county and to protect the lives of its residents.
