With the flattening of the coronavirus infection curve, Kenya has further eased coronavirus precaution measures as part of reopening of the economy to allow its recovery.
On Monday, President Uhuru Kenyatta announced that the rate of coronavirus infections had fallen from 13 percent in June to 7 percent in August and now 4.4 percent.
Owing to the achievement, Kenyatta allowed bars and restaurants to sell alcoholic drinks under strict adherence to Ministry of Health guidelines. He also directed the facilities to close at 10 pm, local time.
The announcement was a big relief to bar owners who have not been operating since March. The operators have been appealing to the president to reopen bars, citing massive losses since their closure.
Some bar owners said their stock had expired while others could not maintain paying the rent.
However, the announcement of the reopening of bars saw most in various cities and towns across the country filled with customers, who celebrated openly.
Joseph Ngumba, a bar owner, appreciated the announcement, saying he was struggling to make ends meet.
“It has not been easy to stay for six months without any income. I have been struggling to meet the basic needs for my family but now I’m happy and I hope I will be able to recover soon,” he said.
Ngumba said he will observe the guidelines by the Ministry of Health to ensure that his customers and staff are safe.
Anthony Nzeo, a customer, said he was grateful that he will now be able to visit his favorite bar.
“Bars are the best place for us to unwind, socialize, meet new friends and business partners and watch Premier League matches. I’m grateful to the president for reopening them,” he said.
