The government has outlawed the entry of foreigners from countries that have been affected by the corona virus with immediate effect.
The ban which takes effect within the next 48 hours will only see Kenyans and foreigners with resident permits allowed into the country.
In Today’s briefing, by President Uhuru Kenyatta at his Harambee House offices, the head of state in his address confirmed that two more cases of coronavirus were confirmed.
President Uhuru went ahead and appealed for strict measures and also calm from Kenyans. “Let us avoid misinformation that creates panic and anxiety,’’ he appealed to Kenyans.
The national government, the President assured, is working with County governments and have partnered to ensure the country overcomes the disease.
“I want to assure you we are doing all that is possible and that our first case is doing well. I also want to assure Kenyans that the government will ensure all those who come into contact with the disease are given full support for them to recover. Many across the globe have been infected and have recovered,’’ he noted.
The President has also warned businesses who would want to take advantage of Kenyans by hiking prices of basic commodities to avoid the temptation.
“We are very grateful to all those playing their part, however I would like to emphasize that we will not entertain raising prices to exploit wananchi , taking advantage of this situation to create artificial shortages of goods so that mwananchi can pay more.”
President Uhuru said that the Competition Authority has been given clear instructions and those who take undue advantage of the current crisis to make citizens pay more than they should, will be penalized.
Following closure of all learning institutions, Education Cabinet Secretary Prof. George Magoha directed all primary and secondary day scholars not to report to schools tomorrow.
“For those in the boarding school, I will issue a circular tomorrow and starting Tuesday they can be able to go home,’’ Prof Magoha said.
Tertiary institutions and universities have been directed to close down by Friday 20th of March, Magoha said.
Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe said the government is not leaving anything to chance and added that they have ensured counties have been given equipment and any support needed to ensure they are ready.
The CS confirmed that the business community has also been very supportive going as far as even establishing washing points and noted every sector is participating in a very patriotic and admirable manner.
The President was flanked in today’s briefing by the National Emergency Response team.
By Wangari Ndirangu
