By Carel Jaspers MSc, Director Q-Point and Project Director NICHE-KEN-212

COVID-19

A word on behalf of the project management team: I hope you and your loved ones are all healthy during this difficult time in which the coronavirus (COVID-19) is spreading rapidly and is affecting many lives worldwide.

COVID IN KENYA: IMPACT ON PROJECT

As of 17 June 2020, the Kenyan Ministry of Health reported 3.860 cases. The Ministry also reported the total number of 105 fatalities. 1.328 People have recovered. The coronavirus has an impact on people’s health, the economy and the food security situation in the country. Healthcare facilities, clean water and hand sanitisers are now essential, creating access for all will be a challenge.

The virus has led to the widespread closure of schools and universities. School closures not only have consequences for students, teachers and families, but have far-reaching economic and social consequences. Travelling within the country is restricted and travelling between Kenya and the Netherlands was and is not possible for a while, to prevent the virus from spreading.

Spraying of disinfectant

These developments will make it necessary to look creatively at how best to proceed with the finalisation of the project activities. National government procedures will be leading in this.  Let us all stay well-connected, keep each other informed and look at smart ways to intervene where possible. Hopefully, the blended learning innovations will be useful in these times of travel restrictions and distance requirements.

I wish you all the best.