14-seater matatus to carry a maximum of 8 – Health CS provides new directives

The Health CS  Mutahi Kagwe has today directed that all 14-seater matatus carry a maximum of 8 passengers, while the 25-seater carry 15, and the PSVs that carry 30 passengers and above should only carry 60% of their capacity. The same applies to SGR and commuter trains. The government also requires compulsory disinfection of PSVs after every trip.

He has also directed that entertainment joints, including but not limited to bars and clubs, be closed by 7.30pm.

Supermarkets are also required to limit the number of shoppers at any given time, and all shoppers must maintain a 1.5m distance from one another. Restaurants and other eateries will remain in operation but must maintain social distancing.

While markets will remain open, county governments will be required to ensure proper sanitary practices and provide soap and water in all market centers.

Meanwhile, fumigation exercises will be carried out tomorrow at the Nairobi city markets including Kenyatta and Gikomba markets, and traders have been asked to stay home.

Employers have been ordered to ensure social distancing in their premises, and will be held responsible if anything happens. He has also requested that firms to minimize the number of staff on their premises at a time, and allow those who can to proceed on leave and possibly work from home.

Hospitals will henceforth be required to restrict patient visitations to family and relatives expressly contacted by the hospital.