This archive report was first published on 20 May 2020.
Kenya has reached a grim milestone in its fight against the coronavirus pandemic, with the number of confirmed cases surpassing 1,000. As of Wednesday, May 20, 2020, the country had recorded 1,029 cases, with 61 new cases confirmed in the past 24 hours.
According to Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe, only two of the new cases were foreign nationals, with the majority being Kenyan citizens. The new cases were reported in various parts of the country, including Mombasa, Nairobi, and Kajiado.
Speaking during a press briefing, Kagwe announced that the cessation of movement in and out of Eastleigh in Nairobi and Old Town in Mombasa had been extended until June 6. He also ordered the closure of malls and eateries during this period, citing the need to contain the spread of the virus in these areas.
“The restaurants and malls are to remain closed until then,” Kagwe said. He added that the extension was necessary due to the continued surge in cases in Mombasa, which has been a hotspot for the virus.
The government has implemented various measures to curb the spread of the virus, including the mandatory use of face masks in public transport, the burial of COVID-19 victims within 24 hours, and the ban on public gatherings, including churches and mosques.
Kagwe also emphasized the importance of strict hygiene practices in preventing the spread of the pandemic, warning Kenyans against handling cash and encouraging the use of mobile money.
