Joho donates masks to be distributed to public at road blocks

Photo|Courtesy Mombasa governor Ali Hassan Joho donating face masks to IG Hilary Mutyambai

Drivers who pass through road blocks in Mombasa County without masks will be offered free masks and reminded of its importance instead of being arrested.

On Wednesday, Mombasa Governor Ali Hassan Joho donated thousands of face masks to the National Police Service as a measure to combat the spread of the coronavirus.

The masks which were handed over to Inspector General of Police Hilary Mutyambai will be distributed to the public at roadblocks instead of arresting them when they are found without one.

 “We are producing thousands and thousands of masks everyday here in the county of Mombasa. So anytime your officers would need masks you are welcome to receive them from us…  We have agreed that anyone who drives through a roadblock without a mask will be given one,” said Joho, in a press briefing with Mutyambai.
The IG while assuring Kenyans that the masks will be provided he also reiterated on the importance of the masks which is now a law in line with the gazette notice issued by the Office of the Attorney General on April 6, 2020.

“Instead of using force we shall remind you to wear a mask and we shall provide one for you. This will be to emphasize that you have not committed a crime but we are enforcing prevention measures against the coronavirus pandemic,” said Mutyambai.

Photo|Courtesy Mombasa governor Joho and IG Hilary Mutyambai giving residents face masks.

According to the gazette notice failure to wear a mask in public could land you to jail for six months or a fine of Sh20,000 or both.

Joho however emphasized on wearing masks and observing social distance since the virus cases are on the rise in the country.

“I appeal to every citizen to wear a mask. Wear a mask or you will be prosecuted. But most importantly understand that the mask is for your own safety.” Joho said.