Kenya, Tanzania agree to harmonise COVID-19 enforcement protocols

Kenya and Tanzania have agreed to harmonise their COVID-19 enforcement protocols to contain the cross-border spread of the disease.

This follows talks between Kenya’s President Uhuru Kenyatta and Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who is in Kenya on a two-day state visit.

The two leaders agreed that a joint team of experts will come up with modalities for mutual recognition of COVID-19 tests to allow the smooth flow of people and goods across the borders.

In the video below, Kenyan correspondent Sarah Kimani says the talks are significant because the last time a Tanzania head of state was in Kenya was in 2016, since the relations have been frosty.

Below is the full interview with Sarah Kimani:

COVID-19 restrictions

Meanwhile on Saturday, Kenyatta lifted the COVID-19 lockdown he imposed last month, allowing for a reopening of bars and restaurants, religious services and schools as the rate of infections eases.

Curbs on travel in the capital Nairobi and four surrounding counties were lifted, schools were allowed to reopen following an Education Ministry calendar.

Religious services resumed with some restrictions. Political gatherings are will still be banned.

Kenyatta said an evening curfew that currently starts at 8 pm will be revised to 10 pm.

The changes came into effect from midnight on Saturday.

Additional reporting by Reuters.