President Uhuru Kenyatta has reaffirmed the efforts of the government in fighting the Coronavirus pandemic, stating that there is hope and Kenya will win the war. — By Prudence Wanza
The President reiterated that the measures by the government have so far bore fruits in curbing spread of the disease.
While addressing the nation from State House, the president thanked health care workers for their selfless dedication towards combating the Coronavirus pandemic, directing the Health and Public Service ministries to develop a welfare package to cushion the health workers.
The President confirmed 9 more positive cases of Coronavirus raising the toll to 234. So far Kenya has recorded 11 deaths and 53 recoveries from the disease.
Uhuru thanked local innovators such as the Kenyatta University students who developed a prototype ventilator, urging Kenyans to channel their skills towards combating the pandemic.
“Our response to this pandemic is revealing our skills and capabilities as a nation,” the President said
Uhuru said there is need for counties to prepare adequately in dealing with the disease as it now spreading within the counties.
“The way counties prepare and respond to this pandemic is going to be critical and as a result, I am directing that county governments receive a 3-month waiver from Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) for the supply of masks and Personal Protective Equipment(PPEs).” He directed.
The National government has also given an additional 5 billion shillings which be devoted towards helping the most vulnerable Kenyans.
” We have identified needy households in Nairobi to recieve a stipend during this difficult time the country is experiencing,” he said
8.5 billion has been allocated to the elderly under the ministry of labor ministry and an additional 500 million has been released to persons with severe disabilities.
Kenya marks a month and three days since the first Coronavirus case was reported.
