This archive report was first published on 22 April 2020.
On April 21, 2020, Nyandarua County Governor Kimemia launched a mass production of locally made facemasks, aiming to make them accessible and affordable to residents.
As part of the initiative, the County Government has partnered with vocational institutions, self-help groups, and private individuals to produce the masks.
The masks are being produced at an initial affordable cost of Ksh.30 per piece, with the most vulnerable residents receiving them for free.
Currently, the County is producing an average of 3000 pieces per day, with production expected to increase to 10,000 per day after the installation of new commercial machines.
According to Governor Kimemia, the ultimate goal is to provide the masks at an even more affordable price of about Ksh.10 after full operationalization of all production units and contracting of more actors from the County.
The masks have been developed with specifications derived from the Ministry of Health and the Kenya Bureau of Standards, with supervision by trainers of trainers seconded by the Department of Education for training at the Dedan Kimathi University.
On the same day, Governor Kimemia distributed over 5000 masks to various institutions and entities, including market traders, boda boda riders, matatu operators, and residents from vulnerable backgrounds.
Other institutions producing the masks include Ndaragwa, Ngorika, and Kinangop youth polytechnics, with equipping of other youth polytechnics ongoing.
