This archive report was first published on 21 May 2020.
On May 21, 2020, the government of Kenya announced a joint effort with religious leaders to ensure that people adhere to COVID-19 health guidelines. The initiative aims to support religious leaders in streaming their services or safely meeting in small groups for counselling and prayers.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang'i emphasized the importance of faith-based organizations in the fight against the coronavirus, citing their influence in places of worship that attract many people. He noted that President Uhuru Kenyatta had instructed the government to engage faith-based organizations in marshalling support for the campaign against the pandemic.
Two religious leaders, Dr. David Oginde and others, were picked to sit at the National Emergency Response Committee (NERC) on coronavirus. Dr. Oginde lauded the government's efforts, stating that faith-based leaders have been playing crucial roles in providing psychological support to the people.
Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe reiterated the government's commitment to teaming up with religious leaders to fight the virus. He urged the clergy to continue passing health safety messages to their believers, emphasizing that a joint initiative from various players is necessary to defeat the pandemic.
On the same day, 80 people tested positive for the virus, bringing the total number of cases to 1,109. Nine people recovered from the disease and were released from the hospital.
