This archive report was first published on 7 June 2020.
On June 7, 2020, President Uhuru Kenyatta announced a significant change to the nationwide curfew in place to combat the spread of COVID-19. The head of state briefed Kenyans at State House, revealing that businesses will now operate from 4am to 9pm for the next 30 days.
This move is expected to breathe life into small businesses that were on the verge of folding. Kenya National Chamber of Commerce President Richard Ngatia welcomed the decision, stating that it will allow Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises to resume operations, thereby resuscitating the economy and enabling people to earn a livelihood.
However, the tourism industry expressed disappointment, citing that despite the relaxed measures, the sector is still staring at zero bookings. Kenya Association of Hotelkeepers and Caterers Chief Executive Mike Macharia noted that the industry is not asking for a reopening, but rather a more predictable schedule.
Bar operators, on the other hand, will continue to suffer as the president extended their closure for a further 30 days. Companies that had set working hours from 8am to 3pm will also benefit from the eased curfew hours.
Matatu Owners Association Chairman Simon Kimutai noted that the additional hours will only bring about a marginal change, stating that the President could have done more. He suggested that opening up Nairobi would have been more significant to the industry.
