This archive report was first published on 11 May 2020.
On May 11, 2020, the Kenyan government announced that only restaurants, not hotels, would be allowed to reopen.
Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala stated that restaurants would only be permitted to reopen after meeting the laid-down requirements.
As part of the reopening conditions, Balala announced a subsidised cost for restaurant and bar operators to have their employees tested for COVID-19, reducing the initial cost of Sh4,000 to Sh1,000.
"The government has subsidised to remove the cost on the business and there will also be no charges for the compliance permit or for inspection, but the establishments have to follow the set protocols," Balala said.
According to Balala, the protocols for hoteliers and other players in the hospitality industry would be released the following week, and it was the responsibility of every restaurant to access the protocols set by the Ministry of Health.
"After meeting all requirements laid out, Inspection and Certification by the County Health Officers, will be free and within 24 hours," he added.
He emphasized that it was the responsibility of every restaurant to follow the protocols, which would be free when they presented compliance certificates.
Additionally, the sale of alcohol was allowed in restaurants, but only with meals, and no buffets would be served.
