By Ben Leshau
War against the deadly coronavirus in Rift Valley’s semi-arid
counties got a boost after a state agency donated over 300 plastic water tanks for
hand-washing storage at strategic points in towns and shopping centres.
The Central Rift Valley Water Works Development Agency (CRVWWDA) has
distributed plastic water tanks in eight counties to promote hygiene through the
hand washing campaign.
The exercise was launched by CRVWWDA Chief executive Officer,
Eng Hosea Wendot and Narok Governor Samuel Tunai.
Wendot said the tanks will be taken to Nakuru,
Narok, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot and Turkana
counties in phase one.
“Some will be stationed outside supermarkets where local water companies will supply
water, soap and sanitizers. We will deliver clean and reliable water to the
population because the nation is facing very difficult times ahead,’’ said Eng.
Wendot
He said the exercise was in response to the Government directive for
state agencies to support the fight against the spread of the virus and their
own Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.
Governor Tunai urged residents to take the war on COVID-19 more
seriously and stop playing games with security agencies when
implementing government directives.
“This is a life-threatening disease and all residents must observe high
standards of hygiene, social distancing as well as observing the 7pm to 5am
curfew,” said Tunai.
County Commissioner Samuel Kimiti said some drunkards and bar owners had
devised methods of beating the ban on drinking.
He regretted that some bar owners were colluding with police officers to close
doors and sell alcohol behind their premises.
“Some drunkards are drinking in bushes to evade
the security
personnel but if they continue with these habits the government will have no
option but to enforce a total lockdown,” said Mr Kimiti.