The government has resolved to manufacture alcohol-based sanitizers and distribute them to members of the public for free in line with a directive to curb the spread of Covid 19.
In a statement dated March 18, the government called upon major players in the country to ensure smooth manufacture and distribution of the products to members of the public, noting recommendations by the World Health Organisation on the use of alcohol-based sanitizers.
“The government is desirous of distributing affordable sanitizers to the general public. To this end, corporations in the oil industry have volunteered to produce alcohol-based sanitizers for distribution for free to the general public,” the statement read in part.
The government directed that the Multi-Agency Team identify all ethanol impounded at all entry points in the country, and release it to the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC).
KPC would then liaise with players in the oil industry, who had expressed the willingness to produce sanitizers, for the expedited manufacture and distribution.
The government directed that KPC implement a framework to ensure that the ethanol is utilised for the manufacture and distribution of sanitizers.
President Uhuru Kenyatta during a state address from State House Nairobi on March 18, warned against traders taking advantage of the country’s situation and hiking consumer product prices.
While delivering a presser at Afya House on March 18, Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe advised members of the public to ensure they wash their hands properly using soap and water.
On sanitizers, the CSÂ urged Kenyans to personally ensure hygiene by proper washing of hands, arguing that it would force suppliers to reduce prices of sanitizers.
“We are asking Supermarkets to provide water points for people to wash their hands so that sellers of sanitizers can bring down the prices,” Kagwe pronounced.
He stated that the Ministry of Health was currently negotiating with the Ministry of Water so as to waive water bills accrued until the virus is contained. This, the CS stated would ensure all water taps in the country are running.
