The Kenyan government has issued a stern warning to residents of Mombasa County, urging them to refrain from leaving the county over the next twenty-one days. This directive is part of the government's efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19, following a recent surge in cases. Mombasa County Commissioner Gilbert Kitiyo, speaking to the media in Mombasa on Wednesday, emphasized that those who violate the directive will face severe legal consequences.
To enforce this measure, the government has established strategic roadblocks at all entry points to the county. These roadblocks are intended to prevent movement both into and out of Mombasa. Commissioner Kitiyo highlighted a concerning trend among Kenyans to seek shortcuts, which has necessitated the deployment of sufficient security personnel to monitor these checkpoints. The roadblocks have been strategically placed at key locations, including Ngombeni, Bonje, Shanzu, and Mwakirunge, to oversee traffic from neighboring counties. Additionally, roadblocks at Nyali and the Kenya Ferry will be utilized to regulate internal traffic within Mombasa.
Commissioner Kitiyo clarified that only individuals requiring emergency services will be permitted entry into the county. The roadblocks will be manned by a team comprising an assistant county commissioner, an Officer Commanding Police Station, a health officer, and a detective, ensuring comprehensive oversight. Vehicles transporting essential service staff, essential commodities, and emergency services will be the only ones allowed to pass through these checkpoints.
This directive aligns with President Uhuru Kenyatta's recent announcement, made just two days prior, regarding the cessation of movement in counties severely affected by COVID-19. The counties identified in this directive include Mombasa, Kwale, Nairobi, and Kilifi. The restrictions are aimed at containing the virus's spread by limiting inter-county movement, which has been identified as a significant factor in the transmission of the virus.
The directive is set to take effect on Wednesday, 8 April, starting at 7 p.m. This measure underscores the government's commitment to safeguarding public health and preventing further escalation of the pandemic. Residents are urged to comply with the restrictions and cooperate with authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens.
