This archive report was first published on 10 May 2020.
On May 10, 2020, the Export Processing Zones Authority (EPZA) urged the State to engage local manufacturers in the production of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) during the Covid-19 pandemic.
According to EPZA board chairman Paul Gicheru, local garment manufacturers had been producing PPEs even before the pandemic and should be given priority when the State floats tenders for their manufacture.
"The board has also requested local investors to venture into making PPEs to help local firms stay afloat during the pandemic," said Mr Gicheru.
As a result of the EPZA's appeal, the National Treasury temporarily lifted the rules that compelled EPZ companies to sell 20% of their annual production in the local market. Instead, they are now required to sell all their products locally.
Mr Gicheru also emphasized the importance of retaining workers during the pandemic, saying, "Most workers live on a hand-to-mouth basis and it would be bad to terminate their jobs. They have families who depend on them."
The EPZA board has given clear guidelines to ensure the safety of workers visiting their workstations, including recommending that workers report to work in phases to maintain social distancing.
Additionally, EPZA has reached out to several companies to set up booths where employees can wash their hands and access sanitizers, as per the Ministry of Health's guidelines.
Mr Gicheru noted that companies are at liberty to review workers' wages downwards to sustain themselves during the pandemic.
Two local companies, Shona Ltd and Royal clothing EPZ Athi River, are among four entities contracted by the Government to produce PPEs for healthcare workers.
