This archive report was first published on 19 May 2020.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect Kenya, citizens are speaking out against what they see as a lack of effective measures to combat the virus. Retired senior military officer Imaana Laibuta has expressed his concerns about the newly gazetted law that fines people found without face masks in public Sh20,000. He believes that this law is not only crude and nonsensical but also a way to abet corruption in the police service.
Laibuta points out that the average fines for petty offences in Kenya are designed to promote corruption. In contrast, the fine for speeding in Uganda is only Ush120,000 (Sh3,400), which is payable instantly. He questions how many Kenyans can afford to pay the Sh20,000 fine, and how crooked police will be laughing all the way to the bank as those caught or framed up will opt to 'pay' Sh1,000 or less to be set free.
Meanwhile, Helen Butoyi is worried about the impact of the government's measures on expectant mothers and the ailing. She believes that these individuals should be tested and allowed to travel back to their workplaces. Butoyi's concerns highlight the human cost of the pandemic and the need for more effective measures to support those affected.
On a more positive note, F. Mukembu believes that there are many lessons to be learned from the COVID-19 pandemic. He notes that the PSVs are carrying a manageable number of passengers, and that the operators must be contented with the little profit they make and still keep their vehicles on the roads with some level of sanity. Mukembu believes that if the high level of hygiene, social distancing, and other measures are strictly enforced, the post-coronavirus epidemic Kenya will be a better place to live in.
However, Dave Tumbula laments that the country has been in overdrive over the COVID-19 pandemic, while nearly 300 people have perished in floods in the past few weeks. He questions whether the attention given to the pandemic is driven by the billions of shillings from donors. Tumbula's concerns highlight the need for a more balanced approach to addressing the country's pressing issues.
Finally, Bornventure Gamba is frustrated with Airtel's poor network signal, which makes it difficult for him to make calls and browse the internet. He wonders how the telco will manage to roll out 5G yet it is struggling under the current system. Gamba's experience is a reminder of the need for better infrastructure and services in Kenya.
Churchill Amatha also expresses his frustration with the Nairobi City County roads department, which he believes should plan for cables and pipes to be laid along roads. Amatha's suggestion highlights the need for more effective planning and infrastructure development in Kenya.
