Dropping of facemask measure welcomed in Nairobi

Kenya on Friday lifted some of its COVID-19 restriction measures introduced to contain the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. Announcing the new guidelines, Health Minister Mutahi Kagwe said it would no longer be mandatory to wear a facemask in public places.

In addition, full congregational gatherings would be allowed again, as long as the faithful attending were vaccinated. Kenya had for the last month achieved a less than 1% COVID-19 positivity, which allowed for the restrictions to be eased.

The news that the masks measure was being lifted was welcomed by some residents in Nairobi. But shop owners who have been selling masks were shocked by the sudden announcement, fearing they will be stuck with surplus stock as a result.