Kenyan Government suspends sporting activities in 13 counties

Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe. [Edward Kiplimo, The Standard]

Sporting activities in 13 Kenyan counties have been suspended due to the rising number of COVID-19 infections.

The Government through the Ministry of Health said on Thursday the decision was taken to reduce the COVID-19 positivity rate in the regional areas.

The 13 counties are: Busia, Vihiga, Kisii, Nyamira, Kakamega, Bungoma, Kericho, Bomet, Trans Nzoia, Kisumu, Siaya, Homa-Bay and Migori.

“All public gatherings and in-person meetings of whatever nature are prohibited within the Hotspot Zone, including house parties and sporting activities,” said Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe.

The move is a major blow to athletes in respective disciplines within the 13 counties.

Sports CS Amina Mohamed. [File, The Standard]

The Government also revised the dusk-to-dawn curfew in the 13 counties to start from 7pm to 4am beginning Friday, June 18.

The Ministry of health further urged Kenyans to observe safety measures as the fight against the deadly disease continues.

“All Kenyans, are reminded not to let their guard down, and they should  avoid unnecessary movements and gatherings, employ physical distancing, observe proper hand hygiene, and observe the proper and consistent use of facemasks.

“All prevailing mitigation measures to guard against further spread of the COVID-19 disease in the rest of the country remain in place and unchanged,” Kagwe stated.

Positivity rate in the 13 regions averages 21 per cent, while that of the remaining parts of the country is at 9 per cent.