This archive report was first published on 20 May 2020.
Kenya's COVID-19 cases have reached a milestone, with the country's confirmed cases crossing the 1,000 mark on May 20, 2020, after a significant increase in new cases.
According to Health Minister Mutahi Kagwe, 66 new cases were reported, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 1,029. Of the new patients, 64 were Kenyans, while two were foreign nationals.
During a daily press briefing, Mr. Kagwe also announced the arrival of two mobile laboratories and testing kits from Germany, courtesy of the Germany Development Bank, to aid in the fight against COVID-19. The two labs will be stationed at Namanga, a border town with Tanzania, and Naivasha dry port in central Kenya.
Truck drivers have become a concern in the region, with several testing positive at regional borders. In response, President Uhuru Kenyatta had previously banned movement across Kenya's borders with Tanzania, blocking trucks at the Lunga Lunga/Horohoro and Taveta/Holili border points.
Health Minister Kagwe also announced an extension of the cessation of movement in and out of Eastleigh estate in Nairobi and Old Town estate in Mombasa until June 6. Additionally, malls and eateries will remain closed until the same date.
