This archive report was first published on 8 June 2020.
On May 6, 2020, the government imposed a lockdown of Old Town and Eastleigh in Nairobi due to a spike in Covid-19 infections, which was later extended for a similar period.
However, on June 7, 2020, President Uhuru Kenyatta lifted the cessation of movement into and out of these areas, citing a decline in infections.
Residents of Old Town, who had been under lockdown for a month, expressed joy at the lifting of the restrictions, saying it was a difficult time for them.
Abubakar Salim, a trader residing in the area, said the lockdown had disrupted their lives, particularly during the holy month of Ramadhan, when Muslims were observing a period of fasting.
Salim noted that the lack of adequate food and clean water compounded their problems during the lockdown.
President Kenyatta's announcement to lift the restrictions was met with relief by the residents, who woke up to find security barriers removed.
The lockdown had a significant impact on the local economy, with the famous Mackinnon Market, popularly known as Marikiti, and several other shops and malls being closed.
Heavy security was deployed to seal off all entry and exit points to control further spread of Covid-19 cases.
The areas under lockdown included Mji wa Kale, Mlango wa Papa, Kuze, Makadara, Kibokoni, and Baghani.
Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe had earlier stated that the lockdown of Old Town and Eastleigh was necessary due to the surge in coronavirus cases in the two areas.
However, the government said the lockdown was not a punishment but part of the measures to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
By Mohamed Hassan
