This archive report was first published on 7 May 2020.
May 7, 2020 - Nairobi, Kenya - The Kenyan government has dismissed allegations of targeting Muslims following the declaration of a lockdown in Eastleigh, Nairobi, and Old Town in Mombasa, where COVID-19 cases have significantly increased since last week.
Both areas are predominantly inhabited by Muslims, sparking concerns of a targeted lockdown. However, Health Chief Administrative Secretary Rashid Aman, a Muslim himself, emphasized that the restrictions are solely aimed at curbing the spread of the virus, which has seen high community transmission.
Aman urged residents in the affected areas to adhere strictly to the government's regulations, viewing them as measures to help, rather than punish. 'I know the restrictions placed are of inconvenience, but they are meant to help us. The measures we have put are for our own good and I know it is not easy especially now during Ramadhan where we are used to coming together but let us bring something positive out this difficult situation by being positive about the containment measures,' Aman said.
As of Thursday, Kenya's COVID-19 situation stood at 607 cases, 29 deaths, and 197 recoveries. Aman warned against sneaking out of the lockdown areas, citing reports of people escaping to neighboring estates, which poses a risk of spreading the virus.
