This archive report was first published on 15 May 2020.
Published on May 15, 2020, the government of Kenya is taking steps to address the rising number of COVID-19 cases at the country's border points.
Health Chief Administrative Secretary Dr. Mercy Mwangangi revealed that the East African Community member states are in talks to enhance surveillance at the borders.
As of Thursday, April 30, 2020, more than 30 truck drivers had been turned away at the border since Tuesday after testing positive for coronavirus.
Four truck drivers were among the 21 new infections reported on Thursday, bringing the total number of cases in the country to 758. The number of fatalities also rose to 42 after two more patients succumbed.
"We are aware that many Kenyans have been voicing concerns regarding these emerging trends at our borders. We wish to inform you that as members of the East African Community we are in constant discussion with member states on how best this matter can be handled for the safety and well-being of our communities," Dr. Mwangangi said.
She warned that if the situation worsens, the government will resort to imposing stricter measures to curb cross-border infections.
Truck drivers from either side are now required to produce a COVID-19 test certificate showing their status before they are allowed to proceed with their journeys.
"The National Emergency and Response Committee is closely monitoring this situation and we will be able to escalate any measure that will be required," Dr. Mwangangi said.
She urged Kenyans, especially those living near the border points, to be vigilant and report any suspicious cases or people trying to sneak into the country.
"We do appeal to our communities living within and around our border counties to actively exercise the nyumba kumi community policing. We should be vigilant and we should report any suspicious individuals who may use panya routes to get into the country," Dr. Mwangangi said.
