DP Ruto urges employers not to fire workers amid Covid-19 pandemic

Deputy President William Ruto on Thursday dissuaded employers in the private sector from sacking their staff amid the coronavirus outbreak.

DP Ruto, addressing the press at his Karen residence, urged company managements to adjust their systems to allow all staff to stay on, albeit to work in shifts.

The DP also urged Kenyans not to underestimate the Covid-19 pandemic and to, instead, comply with government directives.

“We want to appeal to the private sector to be compassionate and understanding to our people; and particularly to employers to make necessary adjustments to safeguard jobs and endeavor not to lay off staff,” he said.

“Our farmers, in their millions, should come out strongly and take advantage of the good rains that we continue to experience and grow as much food as is possible.”

DP Ruto further reiterated the government’s efforts to equip medical professionals with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) so as to enable them perform their duties without being compromised.

He also forewarned of a possible spike in Covid-19 infections, however adding that the government had put in place relevant measures to deal with any new cases.

“In preparation for the possible escalation of the numbers of Covid-19 cases, the government has designated and equipped different hospitals and other facilities, including the 600-bed capacity Kenyatta University hospital, while every county has been tasked to do the same with their health facilities around the country,” he stated.

“Further, we have directed the Ministry of Education to work with counties to identify boarding schools that can be used as isolation facilities for Covid-19 cases when the situation reaches there.”

DP Ruto further stated that the government, through the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA), will supply counties with medical supplies necessary for combating the disease.

He also added the Public Service Commission will this week undertake recruitment of additional personnel, including 1000 doctors, to manage the increasing numbers.

“We’re working with the Africa Center for Disease Control on the approval of rapid diagnostic kits produced by international and local institutions, including KEMRI, to scale up our testing,” said the DP.

“Once approved, these diagnostic kits will enable the government to carry out mass testing of Kenyans which is necessary to capture all those infected by the virus for isolation, containment and management.”

He further stated: “We’re working with international partners including the World Bank and the private sector on the acquisition of additional ventilators, sanitizers and masks with the aim of enhancing our capability and preparedness.”