Mutahi Kagwe has revealed that the government has now given restaurants the green light to reopen to the public, however instituting strict rules on physical distancing to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus.
Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe, addressing the press at Afya House on Monday, said the establishments are only allowed to open back their doors between 5am and 4pm.
CS Kagwe however cautioned that the staff who will be working at these restaurants during the stipulated hours must first be tested for Covid-19.
“The restaurants will operate between 5am and 4pm, not later than that…because, after that, it becomes difficult for the people to get home for curfew,” he said.
“Those restaurants that are going to open must limit the number of persons who are going to be in the restaurant so that they can be able to keep social distances that we have recommended.”
According to the CS, restaurant customers must be at least 10 square metres away from each other and the tables also spaced at least 1.5 metres apart.
He further stated that those going into the restaurants must first wash their hands, sanitize and be wearing face masks; adding that the restaurants must however not offer buffet or self-service.
CS Kagwe also allowed the restaurants to sell alcohol to customers partaking of their meals normally, adding that bars will, however, remain closed.
“We have also said that this is not a license to start opening bars, alcohol shall only be sold to those having meals in a normal manner in a restaurant…we have not opened bars,” he added.
