Kenya coronavirus: 16,268 cases; govt spox tests positive

Kenya continues to battle the COVID-19 pandemic with cases steadily rising each day. Government have locked down a handful of counties including the capital Nairobi and imposed a night-time curfew as part of containment efforts.

This rolling page will continue to give updates on major occurrences as relates to the East African country. You can follow Kenya’s March – April 2020 COVID-19 updates on our earlier page.

Kenya as of July 21 was the most impacted country in the East / Horn of Africa region toppling early leaders like Djibouti, Sudan and Somalia.

Government also rolled out mass testing in virus hot spots, a curfew remains in place but virus restrictions have largely been eased. The school year – from nursery to pre-tertiary level – has been cancelled.

June 24: 16,268 cases; govt spox infected

Government spokesman, Cyrus Oguna, has admitted having contracted Covid-19 and that he is at an isolation facility.

According to a statement posted on social media, Oguna said he had developed mild symptoms after returning to the capital, Nairobi, from an assignment.

He said his family is well and his previous contacts are being traced. Mr Oguna had five days ago denied being hospitalised for coronavirus symptoms.

On Thursday (July 23) 378 patients recovered from the virus, 199 were from the home based care program, while 179 are from various hospitals, bringing the total number of recoveries to 7,135.

With 15,601 confirmed cases, Kenya is the continent’s seventh most impacted country behind South Africa (over 408,000), Egypt (over 90,000), Ghana (close to 30,000). The others are Algeria, Morocco, and Cameroon with over 25,000; 18,000; 16,000 confirmed cases respectively.

• Confirmed cases = 16,268
• Active cases = 8,548
• Recoveries =7,446
• Number of deaths = 274

John Hopkins Uni stats valid as of July 23, 2020> Recently, having come from an assignment outside town, I developed mild coronavirus related symptoms & got tested. #KomeshaCorona pic.twitter.com/HjiniqPVeT

— Spokesperson GoK (@SpokespersonGoK) July 24, 2020

June 21: 13,353 cases; Nairobi records 1,200+ cases in 3 days

Nairobi Senator Johnson Sakaja has been fined by a court for flouting curfew order. The lawmaker is to pay 15,000 Kenyan shillings or face three months in prison.

Today’s ruling is the latest in a saga that has seen Sakaja resign his position as chairman of the Senate Ad-hoc committee on COVID-19. He was arrested with others at a bar in breach of virus curfew restrictions in place.

The episode has elicited varied reactions: from those that believe that he had at least done the right thing by resigning his coronavirus role in parliament. Others are of the view that he should have resigned as a Senator whiles for some, the about $150 fine is the headache for others.

On the case front; the stats are heading towards 14,000 mark. At close of day Monday July 20; there was 13,771 cases with 7,917 active cases, 5,616 recoveries and 238 deaths.

• Confirmed cases = 13,771
• Active cases = 7,917
• Recoveries = 5,616
• Number of deaths = 238

John Hopkins Uni stats valid as of July 20, 2020 .embed-container { position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; overflow: hidden; max-width: 100%; } .embed-container iframe, .embed-container object, .embed-container embed { position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; }

June 19: 13,353 cases; Nairobi records 1,200+ cases in 3 days

Kenya’s caseload passed the 13,000 mark reaching 13,353 after 603 new cases were recorded in the last 24 hours, the health ministry disclosed at the daily virus briefing.

The capital Nairobi accounts for about half of the entire case load. Nairobi Country recorded over 1,200 cases in the last three days only as Kenya extends its lead as the most impacted country in the East and Horn of Africa region.

• June 19 – 441 cases out of 603 new cases
• June 18 – 537 cases out of 688 new cases
• June 17 – 270 cases out of 389 new cases

Today we have recorded another high of 603 positive cases from a sample size of 5, 724 tested in the last 24 hours. We now have 13,353 confirmed positive cases, while our cumulative sample tested has risen to 243,887.#komeshacorona

— Ministry of Health (@MOH_Kenya) July 19, 2020

July 17: 12,062 cases; home based care progressing

The Health Ministry confirmed that Kenya’s caseload passed 12,000 hitting 12,062 cumulative positive cases. There were 389 new cases out of a sample of 3,545 tested in the past 24 hours.

“We want to focus on targeted mass testing. Home based care is the best way for us to manage the virus We want to roll-out training even to family members for people to be managed better by their families;” CS Mutahi Kagwe said.

In respect of recoveries, 345 people were discharged, 134 from hospitals and 211 from home based care. “So far no one has died from the virus from the home based care program;” Patrick Amoth, acting Director General of Health Services added.

#KomeshaCorona update pic.twitter.com/ZfmEjJwSe5

— Ministry of Health (@MOH_Kenya) July 17, 2020

July 15: 10,791 cases; KQ resumes local operations

After 99 days, the state carrier’s first commercial passenger flight took off from the capital Nairobi to Mombasa. The KQ602 took off with each passenger wearing a face mask and observing physical distancing from the formalities through to the boarding.

Another flight, KQ655 also flew to Kisumu. Upon touch down in Kisumu;, present to meet the arriving flight was Governor of Kisumu Anyang Nyongo and other stakeholders.

The carrier was one of the most impacted African fliers during the pandemic. Most passenger aircrafts were converted into cargo flights to transport essential supplies and cross-continental produce.

Recoveries as at close of day July 14 has crossed the 3,000 mark. The total recoveries stood at 3,017 whiles deaths also reached 202. The caseload is now at 10,791; the highest in the East and Horn of Africa region.

• Confirmed cases = 10,791
• Active cases = 7,572
• Recoveries = 3,017
• Number of deaths = 202

John Hopkins Uni stats valid as of July 14, 2020> The moment #KQ602 was off chocks from Nairobi to Mombasa as we resume domestic passenger flights today. #TheMagicAwaits #KQClearForTakeOff pic.twitter.com/u8×7DAK9Lg

— Kenya Airways (@KenyaAirways) July 15, 2020

July 12: 10,294 cases; record 12 deaths in a day

Health Minister Mutahi Kagwe today confirmed 189 new Covid-19 cases out of a total of 1,205 samples in the last 24 hours. Kenya’s caseload now stands at 10,294. The 10,000 mark was reached on Sunday, July 12.

The country also recorded highest number of COVID-19 fatalities in a day as 12 patients succumbed bringing death toll to 197. On the recovery front, 65 patients were discharged bringing the tally to 2,946.

Meanwhile, the Standard Digital news outlet reported that some 15 nurses at a maternity hospital had tested positive for the virus. The cited the chairman of the Kenya Union of nurses as confirming the development at Pumwani Maternity Hospital.

Kenya last Friday mourned the passing of a medic who contracted the virus. The incident involving Doreen Adisa reignited the issue of ill-protected frontline workers.

C-HERP project is designed to assist countries to prevent, detect and respond to the threat posed by COVID-19, and to strengthen the national systems for public health preparedness and responsiveness. #KomeshaCorona https://t.co/gpsHCB2tKq

— Ministry of Health (@MOH_Kenya) July 13, 2020

July 2: tourism industry gets big boost

Kenya has taken giant steps to shore its tourism industry from the worsening economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Tourism Minister Najib Balala announced a raft of measures on Thursday. “Due to the adverse effects of Covid-19 to the tourism and wildlife sector. We have reduced entry fees to all Kenya Wildlife Service game parks and reserves to 50%.

“This will apply for all categories of tourists (local, residents & international), effective July 1, 2020 for one year,” he added. The main interventions are:

• Reduced national park entry fees for Kenyan and international visitors.
• Lodges inside the parks have also been given a year’s moratorium from paying rent.
• Film makers have also been given a 50% discount on filming fees charged in parks.

The minister also urged the lodges to use the rent holiday to improve services. Tourism is a mainstay of the Kenyan economy. The country us a major player in the East African region along with Uganda and Tanzania.

• Confirmed cases = 6,673
• Active cases = 4,435
• Recoveries = 2,089
• Number of deaths = 149

John Hopkins Uni stats valid as of July 1, 2020> The Cabinet Secretary Min_TourismKE tunajibu has reduced the park entry fees to all Kenya Wildlife Service Parks and Reserves for all categories of tourists (Citizens, Residents, and Non-residents) effective July 1,2020 for one year. #DiscoverKWSParks pic.twitter.com/x0unTHiFLW

— KWS (@kwskenya) July 2, 2020

June 21: 100 days since index case; 4,738 cases

Health Minister Mutahi Kagwe today announced that Kenya was marking 100 days since the first case was confirmed. The disease is now affecting 40 counties to date, he added.

260 new cases were recorded taking the case load to 4,738 confirmed cases. 254 of the new cases were Kenyans with the others being foreigners. The number of tests also hit 140,012 over the 100 day period.

The minister stressed that from all indications the virus was going to be around for a while and urged that individuals take personal responsibility in helping curb the spread and by that ease pressures on the system and on resources.

“Our systems are now much better, but we are still learning. COVID-19 has badly impacted our economy including loss of jobs. But the government has made much effort to contain it. By next week each county will have at least 300 isolation bed capacity.

He added: “COVID-19 has affected our mental health. Measures such as stay home, keeping social distancing including isolation has caused a lot of anxiety. But we have seen change especially in behavior such as increased hand hygiene.”

Happy #FathersDay to all Dad’s who turned up with their children for the free nationwide mass testing & screening exercises for #COVID19-19#KomeshaCorona

✅ Mask ?
✅ Social Distancing
✅ Hand Washing ???

Total cumulative samples tested now stands at 133,541. pic.twitter.com/fBVdnJK765

— Ministry of Health (@MOH_Kenya) June 21, 2020

June 17: 3,860 cases; corruption probe on donations, funds

Corruption is looming large on donation and funds meant for government response to the coronavirus pandemic. Authorities confirmed on Tuesday that a probe was underway into a donation by Chinese businessman Jack Ma in the early days of the outbreak.

As of today, investigators confirmed to the BBC that the probe has widened to include all donations and money given to the country to help fight against coronavirus.

They believe that millions of dollars and equipment have been stolen even as the country continues to register a sharp rise in Covid-19 cases, the BBC report added.

Local media recently uncovered the disappearance of $2m worth of personal protective equipment donated by the Chinese government. Aside Jack Ma, the East African country has also received donations from the IMF and European countries.

Last month, President Uhuru Kenyatta vowed that all monies allocated to fighting the virus will be accounted for. Infections meanwhile are steadily on the rise having reached 3,860 on Tuesday.

Kenya is only upstaged by Sudan and Djibouti in the East / Horn of Africa region according to stats from the John Hopkins University portal.

Total confirmed cases = 3,860
Total recoveries = 1,328
Total deaths = 105
Active cases = 2,427

Figures valid as of close of day June 16, 2020

June 15: 3,727 cases; burial guidelines relaxed

The health ministry announced a relaxation of burial guidelines for victims of COVID-19. The existing rule required families to bury victims within 48 hours after death.

Controversy has since developed around the rule because reports indicated that families were forced to adopt among others night burials to beat the deadline.

Patrick Amoth, the ministry’s director general, has stressed that with proper handling, there was no need for the rather ‘hasty’ burial regulations. “If you look at the transmission of Covid-19 against other infections, there is very little likelihood that one stands a chance of getting infected from a body, if treated well,” he said.

Reports say authorities across the country have strictly enforced the 48-hour rule regardless of the cause of death. Over the week, fans of a musician clashed with police in Kisumu over what they claimed was a rushed burial.

• Confirmed cases = 3,727
• Number of deaths = 104
• Recoveries = 1,286
• Total tests = 118,701

Ministry of Health data, valid as of June 12, 2020

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June 10: Kenya tops 3,000 mark

Case load topped 3,000 mark today with 105 new cases taking the tally to 3,094 confirmed cases, Health CAS Rashid Aman disclosed at the daily briefing on COVID-19.

He also disclosed that the death-toll hits 89 after one more patient succumbed to the virus in Nairobi,. But there was good news with a record one-day recovery discharge of 175 patients across the country. recoveries have passed the 1,000 mark reaching 1,048.

“We are delighted to inform you that we have discharged the highest number of patients in a single 24-hour period; we have discharged 175 patients from the various facilities who have recovered from the coronavirus disease,” CAS Aman added.

BREAKING: “We have recorded 105 positive cases from a sample of 2,273 tested over the last 24 hours which brings the total number of confirmed positive cases to 3,094…” – Health CAS Rashid Aman pic.twitter.com/l2wPrbAW0f

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) June 10, 2020

June 7: 2,600 cases ; Uhuru renews most restrictions

President Kenyatta in a national address on Saturday announced a raft of restriction renewals aimed at virus containment as cases hit 2,600 same day.

A 30-day extension of curfew supposed to last between the hours of 9pm – 4am. The enforcement since imposition months back has been the subject of police brutality and calls for justice for victims who have since been killed.

The cessation of movement in and out of Nairobi, Mombasa and Mandera counties also extended for 30 days. Cessation of movement in Eastleigh, Old Town, Kilifi and Kwale ends today.

The public will have to wait another month to know when gatherings will be allowed. The ban was extended for 30 days.

Total confirmed cases = 2,600
Total recoveries = 706
Total deaths = 83
Active cases = 1,811

June 3: 2,216 cases, record recoveries

“This is the highest number of recoveries we have so far recorded since we announced the first discharge case on 1st April, 2020,” CAS Health Rashid Aman announced at today’s briefing.

He was referring to 54 recoveries that brings the country’s recovery to 553. “We want to thank and pay tribute to our healthcare workers for this success.

“This demonstrates that, with good management, this disease, when clinically manifested, is curable and hence not a death sentence,” he added.

COVID-19 UPDATE
✔️2,112 samples tested in the past 24 hours
✔️85,058 samples tested so far
✔️123 new positive cases today
✔️ 2,216 Total confirmed cases
✔️ 54 new recoveries today
✔️ 553 total discharges so far
✔️3 fatalities today
✔️74 Total fatalities #KomeshaCorona pic.twitter.com/SB3gaoQcmG

— Ministry of Health (@MOH_Kenya) June 3, 2020

June 1: Cases cross 2,000 mark; Madaraka Day marked

Today, 59 people tested positive from 1,518 samples, processed in the last 24 hours. The total case load in the country to date is 2,021, and samples tested since arrival of the pandemic is at 80,054.

Meanwhile President Uhuru Kenyatta has tasked relevant ministries to work on easing of lockdowns imposed to curb spread of the virus.

Speaking during celebrations for Madaraka (Freedom) Day, the president said he would issue more guidelines in the coming days.

“I have directed the Ministry of Education to fast-track and finalize the ongoing consultations with the stakeholders that will provide an appropriate calendar for gradual resumption of education in the country.

I direct the Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Health to continue and hasten their engagement with religious leaders; with the objective of developing protocols that will be adopted to guide a more participatory way of worship while guaranteeing the safety of worshipers,” he added.

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Major topics covered below include:

• May 31: Cases approach 2,000; Laikipia records case
• May 30: 1,888 cases, Kericho records infection
• May 27: Record one-day increase
• May 26: Govt intensifies voluntary testing calls
• May 23: 1,192 cases, additional health workers to be hired
• May 21: record one-day increase, Wajir rolls out campaign
• May 20: cases pass 1,000 mark, foreigners deported
• May 16: 830 cases, TZ, Somali borders shut
• May 14: Cases hit 758, focus turns to Kenya-Tanzania border town
• May 12: 715 cases, border crossings becoming flash point
• May 11: Cases reach 700, mass prisoner release
• May 10: 649 cases, Raila worries about Magufuli
• May 8: May 8: Govt to foot quarantine bills, cases at 607
• May 7: 582 cases, lockdown in Eastleigh, Mombasa City
• May 5: KQ’s UK repatriation flight returns
• May 4: Cases hit 535, govt decries abuse of relaxed measures
• May 3: KQ repatriation flight, Nairobi fumigation
• May 2: Case count at 435, mass testing starts
• May 1: Case count hits 411, Uhuru vows transparency

May 31: 1,962 cases as Laikipia records infection

Today, 74 people have tested positive for the virus from 1,574 samples that were tested in the last 24 hours. The total number of positive cases now stands at 1,962, while the aggregate number of samples tested so far is 78,536.

Out of the 74 positive cases; (55) are males & (19) are females. Age range is from 3 years for the youngest and 79 years for the oldest. Fourteen patients from various hospitals were discharged, bringing total tally of recoveries to 474. Death toll stands at 64.

Laikipia becomes the latest County to record a case, bringing the tally of counties affected so far to 34.

“The behavior of the infection curve is totally dependent on our behavior as a people. Each of us has a role to play. Adopting responsible social behaviors to break the transmission chain of the virus is of vital importance.

“We must therefore, continue to strictly observe the containment measures and obey the advisories issued by the government,” Health CAS Dr. Rashid Aman who led the daily briefing added in his remarks.

Today, we have discharged another (14) patients from various hospitals, bringing our total tally of recoveries to 474.

Our gratitude goes to our health workers, who are working day & night to ensure our people are well managed.
#Komeshacorona update. pic.twitter.com/p6xV5QpKtI

— Ministry of Health (@MOH_Kenya) May 31, 2020

May 30: 1,888 cases, Kericho records infection

Kericho County becomes the latest to report a case of COVID-19 according to authorities. The national tally has reached 1,888 after 143 new cases were confirmed after testing 2,959 samples over the last 24-hours.

One patient has also died bringing the death toll to 63. recoveries are at 464. All the 143 cases are Kenyans, 110 males and 33 females. The age range is between one month for the youngest and 88 years for the oldest.

CAS Rashid Aman is also reported to have disclosed that diarrhoea has now been included among symptoms of COVID-19. Among the existing conditions are headaches, short of breath and persistent coughs.

Today we have tested 2,959 samples. Out of this, 143 have tested positive. The total case load in the country is 1,888 from 76,962 samples tested.
#KomeshaCorona update by CAS Heath, Dr. Rashid Aman. pic.twitter.com/76i9vRsPvA

— Ministry of Health (@MOH_Kenya) May 30, 2020

May 28: 1,471 cases, record one-day infections

For the first time, Kenya recorded a three-digit increase in new cases over a 24-hour period. 123 new cases took the national tally to 1,471.

Authorities say the figure is partly due to increase in testing. Government has been urging people to voluntarily test in hotspots in the capital and in Mombasa county – which is the second most impacted behind Nairobi.

“There is a raging number of infections in these areas,” Minister Mutahi Kagwe said. Kenya only imposed targeted lockdowns since the virus hit but a night-time curfew remains in force to curb virus spread.

Total confirmed cases = 1,471 (new cases = 123)
Total recoveries = 408
Total deaths = 55
Active cases = 1,008

Figures valid as of close of day May 27, 2020

May 27: govt intensifies voluntary testing campaign

Government is intensify calls for people to submit themselves for voluntary testing as the steady rise of cases continue across the country.

CAS Health Rashid Aman during the daily press briefing on Tuesday said it was only via testing that the true extent of the disease’s spread will be known.

“We’re appealing to Kenyans in high risk areas to come forward and be tested. The cost of testing, quarantine, isolation and treatment in a government facility will be met by the government. Any information to the contrary is false & is aimed at misleading Kenyans.”

“We glad that majority of Kenyans have responded to our call to come forward for testing. This is commendable & we continue to appeal to all Kenyans to come out and get tested,” he added.

Total confirmed cases = 1,348 (new cases = 5)
Total recoveries = 405
Total deaths = 52
Active cases = 891

Figures valid as of close of day May 26, 2020

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May 23: 1,192 cases, additional health workers to be hired

Thirty-one new cases were registered today taking the tally to 1,192; President Kenyatta disclosed in an address. He also disclosed that 5,000 additional health workers were going to be hired to augment the current strength.

The address also touched on wide-ranging interventions by government in combating other challenges such as deforestation and climate change, flood control, salvaging the tourism and hospitality sectors and cash transfer for vulnerable families.

Meanwhile, mass testing operations continue especially in the capital Nairobi where government is urging people to voluntarily submit themselves for testing. Areas being covered are Embakasi East-Utawala and Eastleigh.

Meet PCBandKenya a Youth based CBO in Kibera who compliment our Health Promotion officers in grass-root communication ?? of #KomeshaCorona ? messages and also aid mobilizing communities to turn up for mass testing NMS_Kenya.
Cc WHOKenya susan_mochacheSpokespersonGoK pic.twitter.com/tS4q4TzrrI

— Ministry of Health (MOH_Kenya) May 23, 2020

May 21: 1,109 cases, Wajir rolls out sensitization campaign

Kenya broke a new case record in 24 hours. The 60 new cases that took the tallies past 1,000 have been eclipsed by today’s tally of 80 new cases and now the national tally stands at 1,109 confirmed cases.

Nine new discharges took the recoveries to 367 with the death toll still at 50. The figures indicate that in a space of 10 days Kenya has increased tallies from 700 to 1,109, an average of 41 cases per day.

Over in Wajir, the county government has rolled out a sensitization campaign. Governor Mohamed Abdi launched the Community Health Volunteers activities as part of virus prevention measures.

The 1000 Community Health Volunteers will be tasked with COVID-19 awareness and social mobilization in villages. The county government has also approved a stipend of Kshs. 5000 per month for the next 2 months.

Quotes from minister Mutahi Kagwe at today’s briefing: “We have increased our testing capacity and we are urging the public to be alert and to continue observing the containment measures. This war cannot be won by the government alone but by all individuals following rules.

“We want to thank all those who have come out to be tested in the targeted high risk areas. Religious community is key to us. We are working with them to make things happen including issues of domestic violence.”

On his part, acting Director General of Health at the Ministry, Patrick Amoth said: “Modeling keeps on changing based on different variables in place. Our health system has not been overrun and we shall continue to implement these measures especially avoiding of gathering, keeping distance.”

The CHVs will conduct ▶️Household visits ▶️Community referrals ▶️Update household registers
▶️Distribute IEC materials
▶️Identify health challenges within the community among others to combat coronavirus and other ailments. WajirCountyKE GovernorWajir #KomeshaCorona https://t.co/9a9L2ZjRuX

— Ministry of Health (@MOH_Kenya) May 21, 2020

May 20: Cases pass 1,000 mark, foreigners deported

Total confirmed cases = 1,029 (new cases = 66)
Total recoveries = 358
Total deaths = 50
Active cases = 555

The case tally in Kenya has passed the 1,000 mark as of today and the milestone was achieved with the highest one-day record of new cases. Today’s 66 cases, 30 of which were detected in Mombasa County, is the highest to be recorded since the index case.

The announcement was made by Health Minister Muhati Kagwa during a press briefing. He also confirmed that cessation of movement in Eastleigh and Old Town had been extended until June 6, 2020; malls and eateries to remain closed until same date.

“We would like to thank the German Embassy for giving us mobile labs, to do COVID-19 tests on site especially at the Namanga border point; Minister for East Africa and Regional Cooperation, Adan Mohamed also disclosed.

The East African Community Secretariat has also procured mobile labs to enhance testing of truck drivers. On the Kenyan side, one lab will be stationed at the Namanga border point and another one in Naivasha.

Deportation of 182 foreigners

Kenyan officials have been busy at border points with neighbouring Tanzania – areas that have been declared virus hot spots days ago. 182 foreigners who tried to enter the country were deported after testing positive for coronavirus.

Of the cases, 126 tested positive in the main border crossing of Namanga. The others were diagnosed in four other border points. The nationalities of the foreigners were not disclosed.

President Kenyatta last weekend shut borders with Tanzania and Somalia citing an increase in cross-border infections. Cargo vehicles were exempted, but drivers have to be tested for coronavirus at border points.

“We can not allow people from outside Kenya to come in without a Covid-19 free certificate, just like we are not allowing Kenyan drivers to leave without a certificate,” Health Minister Mutahi Kagwe told a media briefing on Tuesday.

May 16: 830 cases, TZ, Somali borders shut

Total confirmed cases = 830 (new cases = 49)
Total recoveries = 301
Total deaths = 50 (5 new)
Active cases = 481

Kenya’s case count reached 830 as pf today President Uhuru Kenyatta announced in an address today. The dusk to dawn curfew in place has also been extended by a further 21 days.

A major decision announced also included the closure of frontiers with Tanzania and Somalia.

There will be cessation of movement of persons and passengers into and out through Kenya-Tanzania, & Kenya-Somalia border except for cargo, beginning midnight,” he said.

The national curfew and cessation of movements in the counties of Nairobi, Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi and Mandera to continue till 6th June 2020, he added.

The border closure especially relative to Tanzania comes days after Kenya declared the border town of Namanga a high-risk area.

May 14: Cases hit 758, focus turns to borders

Total confirmed cases = 758 (new cases = 21)
Total recoveries = 284
Total deaths = 42
Samples tested over 24-hours = 1,486
Total samples tested = 36,918

Government reports that a new area of focus in the fight against the virus are the frontiers. “Our borders are now the key areas of focus particularly Namanga,” CAS Dr. Mercy Mwangangi told reporters during today’s briefing.

Kenya has on Wednesday declared the border town with Tanzania as a high-risk area. Namanga is a town divided by the Tanzania-Kenya border. It is in Longido District, Tanzania and Kajiado County, Kenya. It is around 110 kilometers from Arusha, Tanzania.

Zambia has also recently shut its common trade border with Tanzania after the town of Nakonde recorded a spike in cases. It is currently having more cases than the capital Lusaka.

#KomeshaCorona UPDATE
✔️1,486 samples tested
✔️Total samples tested so far stand at 36,918
✔️21 new positive cases today
✔️Total confirmed cases stand at 758
✔️3 recoveries today
✔️Total discharged & recovered stands at 284
✔️2 fatalities today
✔️Total fatalities stand at 42 pic.twitter.com/1UNRhd3Nr8

— Ministry of Health (@MOH_Kenya) May 14, 2020

May 12: 15 new cases, border crossing concerns

“We are upscaling security on border points and testing truck drivers to contain cross border infections,” CS Dr. Rashid Aman told the press today as he gave case statistics on the coronavirus pandemic.

He added that two other individuals from Tanzania at the Isebania border also tested positive and were referred back to Tanzania. “We are upscaling security on border points and testing truck drivers to contain cross border infections.”

With the case count now at 715, authorities reported that 8 patients had been discharges from hospital today bringing to 259 the total number of recoveries from COVID-19.

The new infections comprised 14 Kenyans and a Rwandese. Seven of the cases were in Mombasa, three in Migori and two in Wajir. Nairobi, Machakos and Kiambu recorded a case each. Overall 978 samples were tested.

“We are saddened to announce the death of 3 patients in Mombasa. Two of them died at home, while the 3rd one in hospital, bringing to 36 the total number of those who have succumbed to the disease,” the CS added.

On the regional front, President Kenyatta joined a virtual meeting of East African Community Heads of State held today under the chairmanship of Rwanda’s Paul Kagame.

Another regional bloc, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, IGAD; also donated supplies to Kenya as part of efforts to help combat the virus spread.

The IGAD Secretariat staff contributed 100,000 US Dollars to Kenya’s National COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund.

Similar amounts were also given to the other IGAD Member States.igadsecretariat #KomeshaCorona updates. https://t.co/yggqqfxs0d

— Ministry of Health (MOH_Kenya) May 12, 2020

May 11: 700 cases, mass prisoner release

In the last 24 hours, Kenya tested 841 samples, out of which twenty eight (28) people tested positive for corona virus. This brings the total number of those who have tested positive to 700. Recoveries are at 251 with 33 deaths.

Ten of the cases were from Mombasa county, nine from Kajiado, seven from Nairobi and two from Wajir. Of note is the Kajiado cases which involved Kenyan truck drivers who were tested at Namanga border point.

Authorities disclosed that so far 19 out of 47 counties have reported positive cases adding that cntact tracing of positive cases is ongoing as well as targeted testing in high risk areas.

We have discharged 12 people from hospital.

This now brings to 251 the total number of recoveries from Covid-19.

We continue to thank our healthcare workers for this great achievement.#KomeshaCorona updates. pic.twitter.com/oxDql1xsGR

— Ministry of Health (@MOH_Kenya) May 11, 2020

Meanwhile there was a mass prisoner release that saw 7,000 inmates freed as part of efforts to decongest the prisons and to curb spread of the coronavirus pandemic.

Interior Minister Fred Matiang’i has told Senators that two cases were detected in a Nairobi prison. The health ministry has started conducting mass testing in prisons across the country, the local Citizen TV reports

The government has restricted movement in and out the Nairobi and the second biggest city of Mombasa, as well as two other counties in the coastal region.

It has also imposed a total lockdown in two areas identified as virus hot spots – one in Nairobi and the other in Mombasa – for 15 days.

__Additional reporting from BBC_

649 cases, Raila worries about Magufuli

Ahead of tallies for May 10, Kenya’s close of day stats for May 9 stood at a total of 649 confirmed coronavirus cases, including 30 deaths and 207 recoveries.

Affairs in neighbouring Tanzania has however led to the raising of concerns by ex Prime Minister Raila Odinga who is quoted as saying President Magufuli next door was putting an entire region at risk with his handling of the virus.

Raila told the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) that Magufuli had refused to listen to even his fellow presidents on the need to backtrack on his approach to the virus.

He added that he had also failed to get in touch with the Tanzanian leader: “As nationalist, he needs to get information from fellow regional leaders… This is a regional issue.

“Our destiny is tied together. We do not want a situation where any of these countries will have to close their borders. That is why dialogue is the most important thing,” Raila said.

COVID-19 UPDATE
✔️1,611 samples tested today
✔️21,041 total samples tested so far
✔️28 new positive cases today
✔️Total confirmed cases stand at 649
✔️5 recoveries today
✔️Total recovered stands at 207
✔️ 1 fatalities today
✔️Total fatalities are 30#KomeshaCorona update.

— Ministry of Health (@MOH_Kenya) May 9, 2020

May 8: Govt to foot quarantine bills, cases at 607

Government on Thursday confirmed that it will foot bills of suspected persons quarantined for COVID-19.

The move is to encourage more people to avail themselves for testing as the country’s cases continue to rise day-on-day.

The issue of high fees associated with institutional quarantine has been topical for weeks in the country as people protested the move.

Since the start of the pandemic, many people have been stuck in isolation centres long after they were supposed to leave because they cannot afford the bills. Most government isolation facilities are charging at least $20 (£16) a day, the BBC reported.

Recently, a group of people quarantined in the capital Nairobi jumped the walls of the facility and escaped. President Kenyatta at the time vowed that all of them will be rearrested and quarantined duly.

Mass testing measures rolled out in the capital and coastal city of Mombasa has received low turnout much to the concern of authorities.

Kenya has as of May 7 confirmed a total of 607 coronavirus cases, including 29 deaths and 197 recoveries.

May 7: 582 cases, lockdown in Eastleigh, Mombasa City

The government on Wednesday announced a partial lockdown on two virus hotspots, Eastleigh in Nairobi and Mombasa City.

The 15-day measure took effect same day starting 7pm local time. Under the measure, there shall be no movement into and out of the places.

All public places in the two areas are to be shutdown. The cases tally for the two areas stood at 68 and 64 respectively.

Kenya case statistics as of May 7 stood at 582 cases, 190 recoveries and 26 deaths. Nairobi and Mombasa have been previously placed under similar measure being the most impacted counties.

May 5: KQ’s UK repatriation flight returns

Kenyan Airways on Tuesday arrived in Nairobi with 84 nationals aboard a special charter flight from the United Kingdom.

All passengers were checked into a government quarantine facility as per the terms of repatriation. A negative virus test result was a key requirement aside other boarding formalities from the UK.

Passengers aboard the UK return flight paid 54,000 shillings for the one-way trip. Each passenger occupied an entire row of three seats and had to wear a mask throughout the journey.

KQ is also expected to undertake similar flights from India and China in the coming days. The China flight is from Guangzhou, the epicentre of reported racist treatment of Africans last month. Kenyans were said to be among the most impacted.

Cases hit 535, govt decries abuse of relaxed measures

Kenya recorded a daily record of 45 new cases as the tally hit 535 today. Nine more patients were discharged bringing the total number of recoveries to 182.

In giving a breakdown of the new cases, Health Minister Mutahi Kagwe said: 30 are males and 15 females. It involved 44 Kenyans and a Somali.

The cases are from Nairobi (29), Mombasa (11), Wajir (5). Kagwe further disclosed that the five cases from Wajir County had recently travelled from Mogadishu in Somalia.

“There is a community spread in three key areas: Eastleigh, Kawangware and Old Town, Mombasa,” he said, insisting on the need for the Government to take serious action in those areas.

The 29 cases in Nairobi are from Eastleigh, a hotspot where mass testing started late last week.

• Eastleigh has 63 cases so far
• Mombasa’s Old Town has recorded 39 cases
• Kawangware has 24 cases so far

Some quotes from his press briefing were: “Today’s figure is a demonstration of just how far from normal things are.”

“There is not a single person who is immune to the virus, you are as likely to have it as I am. Therefore nobody should be stigmatized,” he added.

Mutahi decries abuse of relaxed measures

“It is unfortunate that some are going to hotels to order two sausages and two beers. Then they will go to another eatery and order another sausage plus two more bottles.

“The same person will go to another restaurant and order an orange as dessert…and add another beer. Honestly, what are we doing?” he wondered.

He further expressed concern over disobedience to curfew regulations. “If we call the police to arrest such people the media will report that we are harassing Kenyans. It is good that you (the media) are now reporting flaunting of the curfew rules,” he said.

May 4: Human rights issues, mass testing hurdles

Nelson Havi, President pf the Law Society of Kenya posted on Twitter:
1. The Emergency Response Committee has no power to mandate the IG to establish a containment camp for curfew violators. How can such a preposterous and unlawful idea even be contemplated in a constitutional democracy?

2. A while back, the Cabinet Secretary in charge of Health declared that anyone found outside during curfew hours will be deemed to have been infected with Covid-19 and quarantined. Many have been so quarantined notwithstanding the illegality of the declaration.

3. It is high time Kenyans started questioning the propriety of some of the measures taken in containing Covid-19. Parliament and the Judiciary are reluctant to intervene.

May 3: KQ repatriation flight, Nairobi fumigation

Kenya Airways has announced plans to repatriate citizens from three global cities. The national carrier announced the special repatriation flights via social media handles.

The first is from London (May 4th), Mumbai (May 7th) and finally from Guangzhou (May 8th). “Only Kenyan Citizens with COVID-19 test results will board,” KQ clarified.

According to a statement posted on their website, passengers will pay a one-way nonrefundable fare. All passengers must arrange their own COVID-19 tests and present proof of a negative result as part of formalities.

“All passengers must undergo a mandatory quarantine of 14-28 days at their own cost as per government of Kenya guidelines,” it added with respect to the London and Guangzhou flights.

In the case of the Mumbai flight, passengers are: “required to present a copy of covid-19 medical results at the check in counter and the results must be negative. (Test to be taken max 07 days prior to departure).

“During check in all guest must complete a declaration form in relation to 14 days mandatory quarantine in Nairobi,” the statement added.

Meanwhile mass fumigation exercises continue in parts of the capital Nairobi including the Kawangware area – a low income residential neighbourhood that has so far recorded 20 positive cases.

Afya house, Kilimo house and KMTC Nairobi, fumigated today as the fight against #COVID19 is intensified through targeted testing and other measures. #KomeshaCorona campaign pic.twitter.com/wYXKj71Qeu

— Ministry of Health (@MOH_Kenya) May 3, 2020

May 2: Case count at 435, mass testing starts

Kenya recorded 24 new coronavirus cases bringing the total tally to 435. 17 of the cases were recorded in Nairobi (10 in Eastleigh, 7 in Kawangware). Five in Mombasa. and two in Migori County.

A 51-year-old woman in Mombasa became the 22nd victim whiles two more recoveries brings the total to 152. These figures were given by Health CAS Mercy Mwangangi in April 2 briefing on the virus situation.

A total of 1195 tests conducted in the last 24 hours, one of the highest in a day. It also comes two days after mass testing was rolled out in parts of the capital and Mombasa. The exercise, however, suffered an early setback with low turnout especially in Mombasa.

According to records, although the target was 24,000 residents, only 131 showed up for the test rolled out on Thursday. The Health CAS cautioned small businesses that seem to have gone back to work, saying “the disease is still with us”.

Businesses flouting the rules set in place to curb disease spread will be closed. Dr Mwangangi noted that there has been a decrease in the number of patients visiting hospitals for other illnesses.

While this would ordinarily be good news, the CAS said citizens should not be afraid to seek medical assistance when needed, the Standard Digital portal said in its report.

Kenya reports 24 new Coronavirus cases (of 1195 tests conducted in the last 24 hours) bringing total to 435.
17 in Nairobi (10 in Eastleigh, 7 in Kawangware).
5 in Mombasa.
2 in Migori County.
1 death brings total number of deaths to 22.
2 more recoveries brings total to 152. pic.twitter.com/ZdKULHYbIj

— Samira Sawlani (@samirasawlani) May 2, 2020

May 1: Case count hits 411, Uhuru vows transparency

The case count has reached 411 as of May 1 after 15 new cases were recorded over the last 24-hours. Meanwhile recoveries have reached 150 according to data released today by the Ministry of Health.

Fatalities stand at 21 with active cases at 240. Kenya’s overall test count stands at 21,702. A total of 1,434 samples were tested in the last 24 hours, marking a rise from the trend where less than 1,000 had been tested daily.

Nairobi and Mombasa counties remain the most impacted with 248 and 124 cases respectively. Partially locked down Kilifi, Mandera and Kwale also have 9, 8 and 2 cases in that order.

Other counties with cases are Kiambu, Kajiado, Kitui, Nakuru, Siaya and Kakamega. Uasin Gishu, Homabay and Wajir complete the list.

President Uhuru Kenyatta on Friday assured the country that all fund being sunk into combating the coronavirus will be properly accounted for and the report made public in due course.

He was speaking at State House as part of a muted 2020 Labour Day celebrations, addressing concerns in the wake of reports about financial mismanagement with the virus funds.

“We should also focus on the future since corona will not be with us forever. I was surprised when some criticized me for exporting flowers abroad,” he said.

“The flower industry employs very many people. The moment corona is over they will remember us for standing with them in their time of need.”

The President also tasked Kenyans to do all it takes to combat the virus and minimize the incidence of job losses. “We cannot relax in our efforts to conquer this invisible enemy and to put our economy on a strong growth path.

“Because, if we do not, we could lose upwards of half a million jobs over the next 6 months. We must do whatever it takes to minimize, if not to fully contain such loss in jobs,” he said.