This archive report was first published on 6 May 2020.
On May 4, 2020, Machakos Governor Dr. Alfred Mutua received donations from the business community to help cushion families affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Speaking at his office, Dr. Mutua emphasized the need for collective action to address the economic downturn caused by the pandemic. He noted that thousands of people had lost their livelihoods due to the closure of premises where they earned a living.
The governor urged landlords to be considerate by allowing an extended payment period for rent until the current situation in the country stabilizes.
Dr. Mutua also highlighted the need for the government to invest in local innovations to cushion the country in hard times instead of depending on foreign aid.
He called on both levels of government to reduce bureaucracy and streamline taxation to promote exports of finished goods, grow wealth, and facilitate employment.
As part of the efforts to mitigate the effects of the pandemic, the Machakos county government had set up a massive temporary screening and isolation center at the 20,000-seater Kenyatta stadium.
By Samuel Maina
COVID-19 donations Dr. Alfred Mutua Machakos County Governor
