This archive report was first published on 6 June 2020.
The Eighth Presidential Address on Coronavirus Pandemic ¶
On March 27, 2020, we announced a nationwide dusk-to-dawn curfew to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. Later, we augmented it by announcing the Cessation of Movement into and out of a number of areas on April 5, 2020.
As we reflect on the trajectory of this crisis, it is clear that a long-term strategy is necessary. I sought the counsel of our Brain Trust, comprising doctors, research scientists, and public practitioners, to answer questions on how to fight the pandemic and ease restrictions without affecting the economy irreversibly.
Opinion was divided, with some experts advocating for opening up immediately, while others borrowed from history, scientific models, and current experiences worldwide to argue against it. I was caught in a dilemma between two rights, with both viewpoints being valid.
Given the absence of a scientific consensus, I asked for scenarios, including the worst-case scenario and the best options available to contain the spread of the disease without affecting the economy irreversibly. The experts presented three thresholds for lifting restrictions: containing and heading down infections, a prepared healthcare system, and capacity for surveillance and contact tracing.
However, the cases of infections have not taken a downturn, with Nairobi and Mombasa leading the way in new infections. Our healthcare system is not yet prepared to handle a surge in infections, with Siaya County's 10-bed isolation facility already admitting nine COVID-19 patients and Busia County's 34-bed facility full.
Considering the irreducible minimum, I have convened an Extra-Ordinary session of the National and County Government Co-ordinating Summit on June 10, 2020, to review the effectiveness of containment measures, secure undertakings from County Governments to deliver isolation facilities, and develop time-bound protocols for progressive re-opening of the economy.
After applying my mind to the different scenarios, I have reconciled myself to the fact that to 'open' or not to 'open' up is not a dilemma between a right and a wrong, but between two rights. I hereby direct and order the following:
- The cessation of movement into and out of the Eastleigh Area of Nairobi and the specific limitations in force with respect to the Mombasa Old Town Area shall lapse at 4:00 a.m. on June 7, 2020.
- The cessation of movement into and out of the Counties of Kilifi and Kwale shall lapse at 4:00 a.m. on June 7, 2020.
- Following stakeholder consultations in the education sector, the Ministry of Education jointly with the Ministry of Health shall issue and publicize guidelines on a gradual and progressive return to normalcy in the education sector by the Third Term, from September 1, 2020.
