Uhuru Bans Travelers from All Coronavirus-Affected Countries, Orders All Schools Shut

Following the confirmation of two more coronavirus cases in Kenya, President Uhuru has banned travelers from all countries affected by the pandemic for 30 days.

Kenyatta said the restriction will take effect in the next 48 hours and only Kenyan nationals and foreigners with permits will be granted entry provided they quarantine. He also ordered all individuals who entered Kenya over the last 14 days to self-quarantine.

Further to this, Uhuru also directed learning in all institutions to be suspended to combat further spread of the dreaded virus.

Primary and secondary day schools are required to suspend learning on Monday while boarding schools were directed to do so by Wednesday. Universities, colleges, and other tertiary institutions must be closed by Friday.

Uhuru also asked government offices and private employers to allow employees to work from home. He also urged Kenyans to minimize the physical handling of money and instead make cashless transactions.

Kenyans have also been advised to avoid crowded places while hospitals, malls, public service vehicles, and other establishments have been asked to provide soap, water, and sanitizers.

"Avoid misinformation that causes panic and anxiety. Some measures taken today may cause inconvenience but they are designated and designed to ensure we contain the spread of the virus," said Uhuru.

Uhuru said the two new cases came into contact with Kenya’s first coronavirus patient, a 27-year-old student who returned from the US on March 5th.