This archive report was first published on 7 May 2020.
Kenya: Old Town Lockdown Amid COVID-19 Fears and Misconceptions ¶
On May 6, 2020, the Kenyan government issued a 15-day containment order for Old Town in Mombasa, following a surge in COVID-19 cases in the area.
Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe announced the lockdown, citing 47 new cases and a total of 582 COVID-19 cases in Kenya. The order affects all markets and eateries within the area, which will be closed starting at 7pm on Wednesday.
Old Town had accounted for eight deaths as of Tuesday, according to the county government. However, residents have been skeptical of the government's claims, with some even believing that the coronavirus pandemic is a creation of the government.
"There is nothing you can do in Old Town without people knowing. This is a small area and everyone knows everyone else's problems," said Omar Abdulaziz, a resident.
Despite the government's efforts to contain the spread of the virus, residents have been resistant to testing, with many fearing being quarantined at their own cost if they test positive.
"We brought you free testing programme at your door step, but you have decided to ignore us. You seem to care less about it, but I want to tell you that if you do not want to be tested then we will lock you in your house," said Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho.
However, the lockdown has not been well-received by all, with some residents feeling stigmatized by the government's actions.
