Instead of giving us condoms for free, give us masks — Matatu operators’ plea to govt

Matatu operators in Machakos County have called on the government to come to their aid since business has almost come to a halt.

Speaking to journalists on Thursday, the operators said the bus stop has turned into a parking lot since they cannot come to Nairobi, leading to tough economic times.

They further stated that they cannot afford masks and called upon the government to issue masks for free instead of giving them condoms at public toilets.

“We can barely afford food, how can we afford masks? Instead of giving us condoms at public toilets, perhaps they should give us masks and sanitisers.

“We are suffering and landlords are demanding rent from us. How will we survive?” asked one of the drivers.

Adding: “When I left my house there was no food and I have not made any money today. If possible, the government should distribute to the saccos. That way all of us will get something.”

On Monday this week, President Uhuru Kenyatta announced that there will be cessation of travel in and out of Nairobi for an initial period of 21 days to contain the spread of coronavirus.

The move inconvenienced many who said the President did not give them time to travel and as a result they are now stuck miles away from home.

On Wednesday, Interior CS Fred Matiang’i asked Kenyans to take the new measures seriously saying a casual approach would be disastrous.