"Last
Monday 6th July 2020, the President finally spoke to the nation. It
was good news to many. The country had been under lock-down for the
last four months causing unimaginable suffering to many Kenyans. The
President in an earlier speech had given some conditions that had to
be in place before opening up. They included being able to do contact
tracing, having 7 consecutive days of declining cases and all
counties having at least 300 beds to cater for critical conditions
should they arise.
None
of them had been fulfilled and therefore the hope of Kenyans were
close to zero. The President made his appearance to address the
nation earlier at the steps of his official office of Harambee
House at
noon. The President’s earlier addresses had been done at State House. Surprises awaited Kenyans.
The
President made the much awaited announcement. The country would not
be under lock-down for the next 21 days after which a review would
take place. It doesn’t sound prudent to some people.
Especially since from the statistics given, the virus continues to
spread and numbers of infections are increasing. But the President
acted after thorough consultation and consideration.
The
news was a big relief as the citizens were living hopeless lives in
the city. As the statistics pointed out 6 out of every 10 Kenyans
lost their job due to corona. The number of those who were failing to
pay rent rising from 34% in April to 74% in June. That was a worrying
trend. At least the opening of the country especially the capital
city, allows many to return to their villages and at least lead a little
dignified life free from harassment from the landlords. It also helps
the many with families to take children home as schools will
only open in January next year. The city is more dangerous for the
idle children.
We
understand there is a likelihood of the movements spreading the virus
to other places in the country but God is with us. Those travelling
have been advised to exercise responsibility and protect especially
the elderly in the villages. As we thank the President for this
courageous and tough decision he had to make, we really hope those
concerned will continue to remember that Covid-19 is a real threat
and still very much with us. Life is slowly picking up the pieces,
but it will take a long time for cure."
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