Government lifts mandatory wearing of face masks in public places

The government has lifted the mandatory wearing of face masks in public places even as it further eased the COVID-19 restrictions after the country maintained a low positivity rate. 

Speaking when he addressed the media today, Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe, however, encouraged the use of masks in indoor functions. 

However, Kenyans have been advised to continue maintaining social distancing to ensure risk of spread is limited; we encourage the use of masks in all indoor functions.

“All Kenyans to continue to adhere to social measures, ensure frequent hand-washing with soap and water, sanitising, exercise personal responsibility,” he said. 

“There has been a lot of debate on face masks. Wearing of face masks in open places is now lifted. We encourage the use of masks in indoor functions.” 

Kagwe also announced that worship places will have a full capacity provided the congregants are vaccinated. 

The CS said there will be no temperature screening in public spaces, but instead recommended increased sanitation and hygiene awareness. 

Additionally, transport within the country will resume at full capacity, however, staff must be fully vaccinated and travelers must have their face masks on at all times during the time of travel. 

The end to the restrictions will see full resumption of sporting activities on condition that participants are fully vaccinated for persons above 18 years, while school games will resume unconditionally. 

Following the review of health protocols, the government is said to be working on a strategy to ramp up vaccination exercise, which will see 60 per cent of the population vaccinated. 

The ministry’s recent data reveals a sharp drop in infections and fatalities in the past three months.