Transport Cabinet Secretary James Macharia said public service vehicles are yet to be allowed to carry passengers at full capacity.
Macharia noted still the country is under threat of Covid-19 and thus PSVs should strictly adhere to Ministry of Health protocols aimed to contain spread of the virus.
He spoke at ACK Memorial School in Gatanga where he was guest of honour during launching of new classroom complex.
“We not yet out of threat posed by Covid-19 and thus we appeal to matatu and other public service vehicles to honour guidelines given by ministry of health. The ministry with consultation with that of health will relax the restrictions when the contraction rate will be about 2.5 per cent,” he added.
Macharia noted that only Madaraka train and airplanes are allowed to carry to full capacity saying at railway stations and airport measures adhered strictly to ensure passengers undergo screening before they allowed to board.
The CS further lauded flagship road projects the government is implementing in central region saying majority of the projects are slated to be completed this year.
On his part, Murang’a Governor Mwangi wa Iria who accompanied Macharia urged Kenyans not to defy Ministry of Health’s Covid-19 protocols.
The Governor noted that despite the President lifting movement cessation which was imposed in five counties, it does not mean that the rate of Covid-19 in the country has gone down.
“Lifting the movement cessation by the President was one way to support revival of the country’s economic but this does not mean people should stop observing given guidelines. Wearing of masks, washing of hands should be adhered strictly,” he added.
In Murang’a he said they will legislate laws which will enforce adherence of the Covid-19 protocols.
Meanwhile the Governor revealed that the county administration in partnership with local churches will embark on programme to trace and help people who have been affected by mental health.
Wa Iria noted due to Covid-19, some people were psychologically affected as many lost their livelihoods.
“Some of our people got depression after their jobs and businesses were ruined by impact of Covid-19. We have agreed with church to start a programme of tracing this people from the community and offer them much needed counseling support,” he added.
The programme, Wa Iria said will be led by former NCCK General Secretary Canon Peter Karanja with all local churches will be involved in the initiative.
“Major churches like Catholic, ACK, PCEA among other denominations will have representatives and with help of village elders and community leaders will be able to trace the affected and offer them support,” the Governor further said.
By Bernard Munyao
