COVID-19

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW WHILE TRAVELLING TO OR VIA KENYA

There are Countries which are exempted from quarantine upon their client’s arrival in Kenya. This list of countries can be accessed on the Kenya Civil Aviation Authorities (KCAA) website. www.kcaa.or.ke However, in case an individual traveler has symptoms such as a fever that is above (37.5 oC /99.5 oF), and other COVID-like symptoms, Port Health Services present at the airport will handle the traveler in accordance to public health protocols. Note: Countries above will be updated periodically.

All PCR COVID tests should be valid for 96 hours from the date the test is taken till arrival at the destination – Kenya.
Are all ages being tested including infants.
If flights are re-scheduled or delayed, in case the validity of the test is beyond the requirement for the traveler’s destination, it is mandatory to re-test according to the compliance of the country of entry.

A negative PCR COVID test is required for all passengers who are either: • Terminating their travel in Kenya or, • Transiting through Kenya (i.e. Passengers connecting to any route through Kenya – JKIA) This is an important requirement for all destination countries. It is therefore important that a traveler confirm the COVID requirements and expected information specific to the destination country before travel. Note: PCR test is not required for domestic travel within Kenya.

A negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate from any government approved lab will be acceptable. However, this MUST be pegged on requirements at the country of transit or disembarkation. All customers therefore encouraged to check the requirements at destination or transit to avoid any disappointments.

All guests transiting Kenya MUST have a -Ve PCR Covid Certificate. In case the passenger has a long transit with a stopover in Kenya, the PCR COVID-19 test certificate should be valid for 96 hours from the date the test is taken till arrival at transit destination – Kenya and to the final destination as per the COVID requirements for arriving passengers.

For quests entering Kenya, there is a mandatory medical form that requires to be filled before arrival in Nairobi, Kenya. In case this is not filled, passengers will be penalized. Use the link below to access it. https://ears.health.go.ke/airline_registration
Should a passenger opt to transit in Nairobi, the maximum stay is up to 48hrs between arrival and departure flight. All passengers will follow COVID protocols at the airport and transit areas.

ACCEPTED COVID 19 VACCINES ACCEPTED IN KENYA

ACCEPTABLE PROOF OF COVID-19 VACCINATION IN KENYA

All forms of proof of COVID-19 vaccination must have:

  • Personal identifiers (full name plus at least one other identifier such as date of birth or passport number) that match the personal identifiers on the passenger’s passport or other travel documents
  • Name of official source issuing the record (e.g., public health agency, government agency, or other authorized vaccine provider)
  • Vaccine manufacturer and date(s) of vaccination

How the 14 days are calculated:

  • Your last dose must have been given a full 14 days before the day you board your flight to the United States.
  • You are considered fully vaccinated on the 14th day after the vaccination series was completed. For example, if your last dose was any time on October 1st, then October 15th would be the first day that you meet the 14-day requirement.

GENERAL COVID-19 PROTOCOLS FOR ESTABLISHMENTS AND CLIENTS.

1. Redesign the physical work space and work processes to ensure compliance with physical distancing of not less than 1.5 meters apart.

2. Adopt and implement documented Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for handling suspected Covid-19 cases and ensure doctor/ patient confidentially and prevent stigmatization of the affected persons during sickness and after cure.

3. Develop and review existing mode of operation to enable automation in all aspects of operation and cashless payments where possible.

4. Guest/visitors register shall be kept and updated daily and include mobile contact and physical address for ease in contact tracing.

5. Make provision for Plexiglas barriers at the payment counter or designate floor markings of at least 1.5-metre distance to protect staff and maintain physical distancing in areas likely to have queues.

6. Integrate technologies to enable automation, such as contactless payments platforms such as mobile payment where possible and discourage cash payments.

7. Where practical, doors shall be left/ wedged open to reduce surface touching or porters/security shall be deployed to open doors and press lift buttons for guest to limit their touching of surfaces. Use of smart/automated doors is highly encouraged.

8. Promote digital communication/ automation of processes to minimize touch points such as check in/out paperless transactions (where possible), e-menus, e-shopping and cloud technologies.

9. Establish and maintain documented list of emergency contacts, reporting system and evacuation procedures for any arising health related incidents at the facility.

10. Work with public and private sector partners, such as county governments and tourism associations, to explain the protocols and encourage them to be advocates as well as to promote the regeneration of the county and national economies.

11. Standard safety briefings shall be provided to all guests in line with the facilities’ SOPs for first arrival check-in.

12. Provide or make available for purchase additional individual disinfecting products for participants and guests

13. Monitoring compliance with the Ministry of Health and Labour on Covid-19 prevention and Occupational Health and Safety guidelines.

14. As much as possible, make arrangement for advance bookings/reservation as a pre-requisite for guests visiting the facility or tourist attraction site.

15. Develop office staff work schedules and shifts and provide the option of working from home where practicable.

16. Office staff shifts shall be staggered and teams/shifts reduced to limit the number of staff in offices in line with the facility’s human resource policy.

17. Excess office furniture and superfluous items shall be removed. In addition, tables and chairs shall be spaced apart or taped off to ensure proper distancing and spacing, with Perspex screens used to separate facing workstations and nearby workstations where applicable.

18. Staff shall frequently wash or sanitize their hands before and immediately after entering the work premises, after changing into uniforms, after using lockers and frequently while on shift, particularly after touching items or surfaces.

19. Staff stationed in their areas of operation shall be responsible for sanitizing the area surfaces after every service or periodically as may be necessary.

20. Staff handling luggage shall utilize gloves, sanitize or wash hands immediately before and after touching luggage.

21. Staff members’ temperatures, including visiting staff or out-sourced workers shall be taken on arrival and appropriately recorded in case of any observed temperature readings above 37.50C.

22. Staff member with a suspect temperature or showing covid-19 symptoms shall not be allowed within areas of operation and shall instead be required to self isolate for a minimum of fourteen (14).

23. Where a staff member is confirmed covid-19 positive, all staff on that members’ shift team shall self-isolate for 14 days after which they shall be tested and covid-19 free staff allowed to return to work.

24. For accommodation establishments, consideration to accommodate higher risk staff to stay within the establishments may be given to avoid public transport risks.

25. Efforts shall be made to have shifts staggered slightly to avoid queues at staff entrances and congestion in changing rooms.

26. Staff transport vehicles shall adhere to similar safety and hygiene practices with respect to physical distancing, sanitizing, cleaning, capacity, entry and exit and driver interaction as that provided for vehicles ferrying guests.

27. Risk assessments of all aspects of operation in-line with the Ministry of Health guidelines on Covid-19 pandemic.

28. Maintain staff and guest or passenger personal details for ease of contact tracing.

29. Ensure there is prompt, clear, accurate, consistent and enhanced communication with customers on new health and safety protocols, both digitally and physically placed at strategic points.

30. Ensure all facilities and businesses avail a spare supply of masks and hand gloves (where necessary), which shall be available for sale to guest.

31. Staff shall have valid covid-19 free certification for core staff not more than14 days old from a recognized government approved facility at the first time and subsequently maintain Covid-19 prevention guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and relevant agencies.

32. Staff shall maintain physical distance of 1.5 meters apart from guests at all times.

SPECIFIC FOR ENTERPRISES CLASSIFIED AS PER SCHEDULE NINE OF THE TOURISM ACT

A) ACCOMMODATION AND CATERING (CLASS A AND B) ENTERPRISES.

1. Hotels Restaurants/Eateries Serving Food and Beverages operations.

Hospitality facilities providing services of food and beverage to guests shall adhere to the following:

  1. Have valid covid-19 free certification for core staff not more than 14-days-old from a recognized government approved facility at the first time and subsequently maintain Covid-19 prevention guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and relevant agencies.

  2. Ensure complete and regular disinfection and sanitization of food service premises or outlets by the MOH or approved outsourced service provider.

  3. Dining/Convention tables and chairs shall be spaced at least 1.5 metres apart while bar stools set at 1.5 metres apart to comply with MOH physical distancing guidelines.

  4. Creatively make use of open grounds such as gardens, gazebos and terraces to accentuate compliance with physical distancing protocol where applicable.

  5. Guests shall not be allowed to serve themselves from a buffet.

  6. Where buffets are served service shall be done by hotel chefs who will wear masks and gloves or where possible staff behind Perspex.

  7. Buffet may also be served if pre-portioned, plated or deli-type take-away/grab-and-go style meals.

  8. Drinks shall be served on the table by waiters who will be kitted with appropriate PPE’s.

  9. Arrival instructions should explain to guests that they should come down to the restaurants only when a table is available to avoid crowding.

  10. Electronic menus (on sanitized tablets), fixed board, or printed single use-disposable menus are recommended.

  11. Self-service machines such as for juice and coffee and receptacles shall also be manned by staff.

  12. Waiting staff shall stand at least a meter from tables with floor markings to assist.

  13. Staff delivering room service shall stand back two meters until the guest has retrieved the food delivery to minimize contact.

  14. Staff kitchens, canteens, and bathrooms and service elevators where applicable shall be operated under the same hygiene, sanitizing and spacing standards as guest areas and facilities.

2. Kitchen, food preparation and production areas

To address food safety and hygienic kitchen operation, physical spacing, work surface and equipment sanitizing are critical. The following shall apply for kitchen operations;

  1. Put in place a robust Food Safety Management Systems (FSMS).

  2. Menus shall be simplified to reduce production complexities and the number of required staff and range of supplies at any one time.

  3. Kitchen worktops/sections shall be demarcated to indicate the physical spacing required.

  4. Kitchen equipment and guest crockery and cutlery shall be handled with gloves and disinfected/washed separately both on deep and high temperature wash cycles.

  5. Guests shall not be allowed to serve themselves from a buffet style of meal service.

  6. Ventilation shall be maximized either with open windows or efficient fume extractor.

  7. Disinfectants shall be used to deep clean kitchen areas and storage areas from time to time.

3. Guestrooms and Housekeeping services.

Guest’s accommodation service providers shall adhere to the following protocols;

  1. Where shared rooms are used and shared between non-group/non-family members, a maximum number of occupants per room, at approximately 50% of capacity, must be determined with 4m – 5m minimum spacing per bed.

  2. Provide travel size hand sanitizer to guests as part of in-room amenity during their stay.

  3. Guest room air conditioning and ventilation systems shall be enhanced and cleaned after every check-out.

  4. Room cleaning and linen change frequency may be reduced to lower contamination risks during Covid-19 period.

  5. When cleaning rooms, contact surfaces and floors shall be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, beddings and linen, handled with care to avoid contact and soiled linen bagged immediately after removal.

  6. Hand gloves shall be changed between rooms and disposed off safely.

  7. Turndown services shall be restricted to facilitate minimal contacts.

  8. Extra cushions, throws, blankets and décor items shall be removed.

  9. Guests shall be provided extra room requirements including but not limited to sewing kits, vanity kits, shoe cleaning kits, irons, magazines only on request.

  10. Mini-bar stock shall only be provided on request as a room service.

  11. On check-out all furniture, all surfaces, all movable items, wall surfaces close to traffic/seating/lying areas, all floors and bathrooms shall be thoroughly cleaned with an effective disinfectant.

  12. Consideration shall be given to increasing the time between check-out and check-in to ensure housekeeping have sufficient times for thorough deep cleaning of rooms.

  13. Laundry shall be handled with masks and gloves under all circumstances and guest’s personal laundry items handled separately for each room.

  14. Laundry, linen, towels and guest cloths shall be put into ample quality non-plastic bags for laundry collection or transporting to the laundry for proper washing in hot cycles above 70 degrees Celsius.

  15. Accommodation establishments are encouraged to rotate room use leaving a used room for at least one (1) idle day before subsequent check-in.

4. Swimming Pool Areas, Operations and Services

The following protocols apply to swimming pool areas, operations and services:

  1. Be operated at maximum safety condition with chlorine levels in pools kept between 1-3mg/l, with pH range of 6.8 – 7.4’.

  2. Ensure the number of loungers are reduced and appropriately spaced at 1.5 metres apart to adhere to physical distancing guidelines.

  3. Pool use capacity shall be determined and monitored by lifeguards, in addition inter-group plays or mingling shall not be permitted in pools.

  4. Communal pool usage should limit the number of people to allow physical distancing.

  5. Sunbathing chairs shall be appropriately spaced at 1.5 metres apart and areas routinely cleaned and disinfected.

  6. Swimming towels shall be immediately collected and placed in laundry plastic bags for cleaning after use.

5. Health Club and Spa Services.

The following protocols shall apply to health club and spa services:

  1. Have valid covid-19 free certification for core staff not more than14-days-old from a recognized government approved facility at the first time and subsequently maintain Covid-19 prevention guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and relevant agencies.

  2. Adhere to all health, safety and hygiene practice, sanitizing and spacing guidelines prescribed in general protocol provisions.

  3. Spa therapists shall follow strict hygiene rules and shall wear a mask during treatments. However, facial treatments shall be suspended for the time being until the situation is reviewed.

  4. Spa equipment shall be sterilized between treatments.

  5. Spa linen shall be replaced after each treatment and washed as per the specified MOH guidelines and prescribed protocols herein.

  6. Creatively provide alternative forms of exercise such as running or hiking to involve guest in other active physical exercises.

B) ENTERTAINMENT, EVENTS, MEETINGS, CONFERENCES AND EXHIBITIONS (CLASS F AND G) ENTERPRISES.

Event and Entertainment, Conference/Exhibition facilities are considered high risk areas. Operations shall remain restricted during the Covid-19 pandemic period in accordance with the Ministry of Health (MOH) guidelines and shall be gradually opened with new available information on the virus. On opening, the facilities shall comply with the general provisions prescribed in this protocol and any other relevant agencies’ guidelines while holding any activity and;

  1. Have valid covid-19 free certification for core staff not more than 14-days-old from a recognized government approved facility at the first time and subsequently maintain Covid-19 prevention guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and relevant agencies.

  2. Ensure all MICE activities are conducted in accordance with strict health, safety and hygiene procedures of this protocol, with revised floor plans to facilitate 1.5-metre distance between delegates or patrons.

  3. Provide adequate space between booths and aisles for ease of movement and physical distancing measures.

  4. Provide participants’ control mechanisms by introducing barriers and floor marks spaced at 1.5 metres to ensure physical distancing at all arrival areas, queues, conference rooms and all public places.

  5. Events/banquets with over 15 persons and public gatherings likely to attract more than 15 people, like discos, dances and parties shall ensure physical distancing of 1.5 metres is adhered to between participants.

  6. Provide health and sanitation stations strategically located within the conference/exhibition area.

  7. Convention registration/guest bookings shall be set up at multiple stations to maintain physical distancing.

  8. Break times and meal periods be extended to allow for additional sanitization, and encourage prepackaged food offerings as alternative options.

  9. Food service shall adhere to the food service protocols prescribed under part three of this protocol and cocktail functions are not allowed within MICE activities.

  10. Promote and encourage online bookings to minimize physical registration and issuance of badges by walkin clients.

  11. Ensure water, mints and any other supply within meeting rooms are supplied to individuals and not collectively or shared.

  12. Provide pens, note pads, files and such supplies on request and guests required to keep any such supply distributed to them or in their possession.

  13. Ventilate meeting rooms and exhibition halls well to allow for free flow of air.

  14. Ensure real time monitoring of participants’ movements within and control of the number of people accessing the exhibition area.

  15. Conference delegates to maintain their designated seating area throughout the event, and institute control measures for breakout sessions to reduce multiple touch points.

  16. Discourage give a ways and souvenirs to delegates from any booths, and where promotional materials, information packs, press packs and collaterals are requested for, the laid down procedure for sanitization of all supplies and deliveries shall be adhered to.

  17. Discourage issuance of meeting bags, folders, programmes and provide downloadable material through QR Codes or online Apps with all necessary delegate information including presentations.

  18. Organized transport for delegates shall adhere to protocols for transport vehicles as set out in this protocol.

  19. Adapt frequency and schedule for regular waste disposal from all booths, exhibition stands, conference halls and common areas.

  20. All event attendees/ delegates must agree to understanding the rules and procedures and commit to adhering to the same prior to being accepted at registration, and gaining access to event facilities.

  21. Every indoor venue or convention centre shall set aside a well-equipped Covid 19 holding/emergency room for any suspected cases.

  22. Exhibitions and building materials for all booths, furniture, audio visual equipment and all items on display shall be sanitized on delivery and personnel.

  23. Events crew shall be guided by timelines of set up plan. Time keeping shall be critical to ensure zero interaction between the crews of different suppliers.

  24. For sports events, the type of sports and number of attendees shall determine the size and design of the venue. Venues/fields shall be sanitized before, during half time and after games. Pre-game holding areas shall not be shared, each team is encouraged to have their own changing room facilities.

  25. At venues and convention centers, screens shall be installed at entrances to display COVID-19 safety awareness information, while brand ambassadors will engage all customers and consumers checking into the event and advise them on safety protocols.

  26. A no handshake, physical contact policy shall be maintained at all events to enhance compliance with Covid-19 preventive measures put in place.

C) TOURS AND TRAVEL AGENCIES AND ADVENTURE SPORTS (CLASS C) ENTERPRISES.

1. Tour Operators

  1. Have valid covid-19 free certification for core staff not more than 14-days-old from a recognized government approved facility at the first time and subsequently maintain Covid-19 prevention guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and relevant agencies.

  2. Have documented Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for guest management in line with these protocols and MOH Covid-19 preventive guidelines as appropriate.

  3. Guest/visitors register shall be kept and updated daily and should include mobile contact and physical address for ease in contact tracing. 4. Establish and maintain a register of all staff, drivers and guests handled.

  4. Whenever possible, minimize walk-in clients and encourage online bookings.

  5. Ensure tour vans and transfer vehicles are properly cleaned and sanitized during and after each trip/ transfers.

  6. Provide packed lunches for long drive to avoid stop-overs. Staff while serving food and drinks shall observe the guidelines similar to catering and accommodation facilities provided herein.

  7. Ensure drivers and guides use suitable communication gadgets for vehicles carrying more than seven (7) passengers to communicate with guest to avoid turning or shouting to enable them to be heard by guests.

  8. Ensure disposable headrests covers are replaced after each trip.

  9. Where possible, have vehicle air-conditioners modified to include air purifiers where applicable, which will reduce the ability of the virus circulating inside the vehicle especially for larger and luxury vehicles.

  10. Encourage open windows when weather permits, to allow air circulation.

  11. Develop creative personalized group tours and packages to incentivize domestic tours, excursions, short trips and visits to nearby destinations in the short term.

  12. Limit the number of staff accompanying guests in every trip.

  13. Ensure information provided is stuck on the back of the chairs or the body of the vehicle to minimize contact.

  14. Promote use of smart/automated doors to minimize touching contaminated surfaces where applicable.

  15. Integrate technologies to enable automation, such as contactless payments platforms such as online money transaction where possible and discourage cash payments.

2. Travel agents’ operations and services

The travel agents and their service providers shall be required to comply with the general provisions prescribed on this protocol and in addition;

  1. Have valid covid-19 free certification for core staff not more than 14-days-old from a recognized government approved facility at the first time and subsequently maintain Covid-19 prevention guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and relevant agencies.

  2. Minimize walk-in clients and encourage online bookings.

  3. Promote use of smart/automated doors to minimize touching contaminated surfaces.

  4. Develop a Covid-19 Travel Risk Assessment Plan to assess any potential risks. The risk assessment plan shall help provide question and answer questions relating to health, safety and hygiene measures in the destination in response to guests’ queries and specific needs.

  5. Encouraging physical distancing of at least 1.5 metres and providing signage to ensure proper separation in common areas, discouraging congregating in crowded areas, limiting the number of employees and customers in the travel agent’s shop.

  6. Encouraging physical distancing of at least 1.5 meters and providing signage to ensure proper separation in common areas, discouraging congregating in crowded areas, limiting the number of employees and customers in the travel agent’s shop.

  7. Enhanced sanitation by customized procedures to suit each agents operating environment and the expectations of its customers.

  8. Enhanced Sanitation by customized procedures to suit each agents operating environment and the expectations of its customers.

  9. Implement touchless technologies or low-touch solutions, where practical, such as e-ticketing, e-visa solution, online check in services, e-payment or mobile payment services, customer, passenger tracing services and travel agent’s airport transfers to limit the opportunity for virus transmission while also promoting a safe and enjoyable travel experience for customers.

3. Adventure sports facilitators and employees

1. Have valid covid-19 free certification for core staff not more than 14-days-old from a recognized government approved facility at the first time and subsequently maintain Covid-19 prevention guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and relevant agencies.

2. Protect employees with various approaches, including barriers/visors, PPE, and distancing.

3. Put in place measures to manage density of people within the facilities to keep people or family units apart, flow of passage in defined visitor’s paths and the use of common spaces.

4. Reduce or manage capacity to enhance compliance with physical distancing of at least 1.5 metres apart and monitor entrance and venue capacity at all times.

5. All activity PPE should be cleaned, sanitized and stored following manufacturers guidelines.

6. Clients shall on their own, put on activity PPE under the guidance and instructions of an instructor. However, where the instructor is required to physically help/check activity PPE, both shall properly wear appropriate PPE to ensure safety is not compromised.

7. All clients and instructors shall carry and wear face masks if they are NOT on activities or if they have to interact with the public. Put your masks away during watersports and water related activities.

8. Check and clean equipment that is not PPE with appropriate disinfectant before client’s arrival.

9. Appropriate venue and activity shall be chosen and considered by the instructor (size of water body, difficulty, wind, weather, tide and access) while taking into consideration physical distancing, rescues coaching and leadership.

4. Golf tourism operations and services

Golf club tourism facilities are considered high-risk areas. Operations shall remain restricted during the Covid-19 pandemic period in accordance with the Ministry of Health (MOH) guidelines and shall be gradually opened with new available information on the virus. On opening, the facilities comply with the general provisions any other relevant agencies’ guidelines while holding any activity and:

  1. Have valid covid-19 free certification for core staff not more than 14-days-old from a recognized government approved facility at the first time and subsequently maintain Covid-19 prevention guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and relevant agencies.

  2. All members/golfers and staff shall have their temperature and any other health details taken (health declaration) before entering the facility.

  3. All members/golfers and staff shall wear masks and other relevant PPEs.

  4. Information on covid-19 protocols shall be clearly displayed in strategic positions within the facility, and members and staff shall be trained on the new protocols.

  5. The details of golfers and staff shall be recorded and maintained every day upon arrival.

  6. All members shall observe sanitizing, hygiene and physical distancing guidelines provided herein.

  7. The management shall increase frequency of cleaning and sanitizing of all surfaces that are frequently used.

  8. All clubs offering catering and accommodation facilities shall operate in line with catering and accommodation facilities guidelines provided herein.

  9. The management shall provide visibly-marked, wall mounted hand sanitizer dispenser in the clubhouse and at all entries and exits points.

  10. Members shall be encouraged to avoid cash payments and instead use online and mobile phone payments for all their transactions with the clubs.

  11. Members shall only be allowed entry into the club upon producing membership cards at the gate and having their temperatures checked.

  12. All members shall observe physical distancing and self-caddied play where golfers carry their own golf bags around the course.

  13. Golfers are encouraged to either play alone, in twos or threes for physical distancing purposes.

  14. The starting intervals shall be restricted and must be staggered by at least ten (10) minutes.

  15. Golfers shall not gather at the starters.

  16. The facilities shall only accommodate a limited number of members at any one time to ensure physical distancing guidelines are adhered to.

5. Zip lining tours, operations and services

The operators and visitors to the Zip Lining tours shall be required to comply with the general provisions of the protocol and:

  1. Have valid covid-19 free certification for core staff not more than14 days old from a recognized government approved facility at the first time and subsequently maintain Covid-19 prevention guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and relevant agencies.

  2. Both instructors and guests shall wear face coverings and latex gloves under their protective gloves during Zip tours except when;
  • The guest is calling for assistance from instructors.
  • The instructor is giving safety instructions at a distance of at least 1.5 metres.
  1. The guest is calling for assistance from instructors; for clarity.

  2. The instructor give safety instructions at a distance of at least 1.5 metres.

  3. Safety critical checks shall be adopted to enable physical distancing where possible without compromising safety.

  4. Instructors shall brief each zip tour group on these protocols before departing from reception.

  5. Safety critical PPE checks shall be performed visually by instructors while maintaining physical distancing without compromising the guest’s safety during the activity. To aid in physical checks guests shall be instructed to demonstrate that their PPEs are fitted correctly. Where physical checks are essential, both guests and instructors shall wear latex gloves and masks at all times.

  6. During physically challenging portions of the activity, for example during trekking, physical distancing shall be maintained at all times to ensure the health of the guest.

  7. Instructors shall carry spare face coverings and gloves for the guests.

  8. Guests shall remove their PPEs outside the premise and place them in a rack provided for laundry.

  9. Guests shall pick their belongings from an assigned officer.

  10. Guest’s belongings shall be properly stored in a clean sanitized surface.

  11. PPEs shall be cleaned and sanitized in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines or MOH guidelines where the manufacturer has not provided any.

6) Motor Sports, Cycling, Walking, Mountain Climbing/ Rock Climbing and Mountain Biking activities.

The operators, facilitators, service providers and visitors undertaking these events and activities for leisure and tourism purpose shall be required to comply with the general provision of this protocol and; in addition:

  1. Have valid covid-19 free certification for core staff not more than14 days old from a recognized government approved facility at the first time and subsequently maintain Covid-19 prevention guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and relevant agencies.

  2. Ensure participants are briefed on these protocols and the expectations during the activities while observing physical distancing of 1.5m-2m.

  3. Crew members are encouraged to carry their packed meals or have them supplied by an outlet that has been cleared/certified under catering/ restaurant Protocols.

  4. Crew members are encouraged to carry their own drinking water and other items like snacks.

  5. Kitchen tents shall be operated in line with food service protocols prescribed under part three of this protocol.

  6. All public toilets shall be disinfected at least after every hour when guests are within the vicinity.

  7. All eating spots shall be planned to accommodate distancing of groups.

  8. KWS Mountain Rescue or a medical officer shall be notified of any suspected case of covid-19 for medical attention.

  9. Each client shall be provided with their own harness, helmet, carabineer, cows tail lanyard or any other equipment for the duration of the activity. After gear allocation and fitting all clients and staff shall be required to sanitize before activity commencement.

  10. Instructors shall belay all ropes at least 2m from clients except in situations where safety is compromised. No client shall belay.

  11. Clients shall clip themselves onto the ropes using carabineer while the instructors check from a distance except where assistance is required.

  12. Back up bilayer shall be stationed at least 2m from bilayer.

  13. The carabineer shall be sanitized after each climb.

  14. Clients and bilayer shall sanitize their hands at the wash station setup at the base of the crag.

  15. Where applicable, food and food containers shall be sanitized, and clients spaced out to observe physical distancing. A hand wash station shall be setup for use before and after eating.

  16. All PPEs shall be sanitized and washed following manufacturing guidelines or MOH guidelines where the manufacturers have not provided any.

  17. All third-party contractors including rangers, guards and drivers shall be briefed on the 1.5-2-meter distancing rules and they shall wear masks when in close proximity of guests and other employees.

  18. Mountain biking routes shall be limited to remote trails and not through villages or settlements to avoid any contact with the local population. Where the trails pass through villages/settlements, participants shall wear face masks and maintain physical distancing.

7. Water Sports: Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Kite surfing, Sailing, jet Ski, Rafting, Canoeing and Kayaking

Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Kite surfing, Sailing, Jet Ski, Rafting, Canoeing and Kayaking Operators shall comply with the general provision under part two of this protocol. In addition, shall adapt the following protocols:

  1. Have valid covid-19 free certification for core staff not more than 14-days-old from a recognized government approved facility at the first time and subsequently maintain Covid-19 prevention guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and relevant agencies.

  2. Appropriate venue and activity shall be chosen and considered by the instructor (size of water body, difficulty, access) while taking into consideration physical distancing, rescues coaching and leadership.

  3. Continually consider and act to minimize the risk of infection/transmission, such as avoiding sharing or passing any equipment to the paddler or helping lift their craft/helping them put equipment on and equipment checks shall be done by individual client.

  4. There shall be appropriate time allocation between different groups accessing the water to observe physical distancing.

  5. Instructor to client ratio shall be reduced to 1:6.

  6. Suitable canyons and activity sections shall be selected for the group to observe physical distancing whilst on activity.

  7. Ensure all sporting activities are done in designated safe areas to limit interaction/contact with the local population.

  8. Tight canoes with limited space where clients cannot observe the current MOH physical distancing regulations shall NOT to be used.

D) PROFESSIONAL SAFARIS AND SERVICES, PHOTOGRAPHERS, TOUR GUIDES/ LEADERS AND BEACH OPERATIONS SERVICES (CLASS E) ENTERPRISES.

All professional safari providers, guides and beach operators shall comply with the general provision under this protocol and in addition:

  1. Have valid covid-19 free certification for core staff not more than 14-days-old from a recognized government approved facility at the first time and subsequently maintain Covid-19 prevention guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and relevant agencies

  2. Safari guides shall carry sanitizer at all times and its regular use encouraged. 3. Guides and guests shall wear appropriate PPEs at all times.

  3. Additional disposable PPEs shall be made available in the vehicle for use at all times. 5. Waste bins shall be available for the disposal of used PPEs.

  4. A contactless thermometer for checking temperature shall be made available for use in the vehicle at all times.

  5. Maintain good personal grooming and ensure clothing properly cleaned and ironed on a daily basis.

  6. Ensure Vehicles used in guest transport are cleaned and sanitized after every passenger /group tour. 9. Each Beach Management Organization/Operator Association shall appoint a Safety Officer responsible for temperature screening of beach operators and clients before their interaction.

  7. Maintain a register of clients transported or who have interacted with the tour guides/beach operators for purposes of contact tracing.

  8. Maintain appropriate and reliable list of emergency contacts for rapid assistance in case of health and safety related instances.

  9. Handling of cash shall be minimized or eliminated and online mobile payment or credit/debit cards encouraged.

  10. Guide books shall be provided on requests.

  11. Develop and implement a uniform standard operating procedure shared among all association members, TSV operators and companies.

  12. Membership to recognized professional associations is encouraged.

E) TOURIST MOBILE SERVICE AND TRANSPORT PROVIDERS– LOCAL AIR CHARTERS, TOURIST VEHICLE SERVICE AND BOAT OPERATORS (CLASS C AND E) ENTERPRISES.

1. Tourist Service Vehicle

Tourist Service Vehicle/Boat Operators shall be required to comply with the general provisions in this protocol and in addition;

  1. Have valid covid-19 free certification for core staff not more than 14-days-old from a recognized government approved facility at the first time and subsequently maintain Covid-19 prevention guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and relevant agencies.

  2. Ensure TSVs/Boats are sanitized before the start of each trip and this will include cleaning and disinfecting of all surfaces (handrails, door handles, tables, seats etc.) at regular times in the course of trip.

  3. Ensure vehicles/Boats are sanitized between uses by different guests/clients.

  4. Have hand sanitizers freely available on board for the guests to use throughout the journey.

  5. Make available approved quality facemasks for sale to guests on all trips.

  6. Tourist vehicles/boats shall not be allowed to make stopovers at any other place apart from the pre-arranged designated point or areas unless in a case of emergency.

2. Carrying Capacity of Tourist Service Vehicles/Safari Vehicles and Boats

  1. Carry a capacity that ensures physical distancing between guests travelling together

  2. The maximum recommended capacity to be observed for each class of vehicle are as follows;
    • For minibuses, land cruisers and similar vehicles the carrying capacity shall not exceed 7 passengers, unless when travelling as a family unit.
    • For 23-seater Coaches, the carrying capacity shall not exceed 70% occupancy.
    • For 33-seater Coaches, the carrying capacity shall not exceed 70% occupancy.
    • For 45-seater Coaches, the carrying capacity shall not exceed 70% occupancy
    • For 56-seater Coaches, the carrying capacity shall not exceed 70% occupancy
  1. Ensure that all tour arrangements consider the needs of persons with disabilities.

  2. Choose partners that are confirmed to comply with existing Government directives for the safe handling of their guests.

  3. Keep a record of emergency contacts for rapid response services in case of Covid-19 suspected instances from designated authorities.

3. Maintenance of cleanliness of the Vehicles/Boats on trips

  1. Ensure that interior surface of Vehicles/boats are sanitized frequently. Particular attention shall be paid to disinfecting frequently touched areas and surfaces both internal and external such as door handles and armrests.

  2. Third (3rd) party cleaners and car washers shall be encouraged to wear appropriate PPEs (gloves, aprons or boiler suits).

  3. Any provided water bottles or items shall be labelled with each guest’s name to avoid sharing or use by another.

  4. Portable food containers shall be sanitized regularly.

  5. Binoculars, telescopes and cameras shall not to be shared and shall be sanitized regularly.

  6. Blankets or ponchos are discouraged, however, where provided for guest use, they shall not be shared, and be disinfected/sanitized regularly.

  7. Particular attention shall be given to luggage disinfection before and after handling.

4. Hot air balloon operators

Balloon operators shall comply with the general provisions prescribed and airlines operations protocols. In addition, the operators shall adapt the following protocols:

  1. Hot air balloon flights operators shall provide additional antibacterial hand sanitizers within each balloon for customers and staff use.

  2. Appropriate PPEs shall be worn by all staff when cleaning balloon basket equipment.

  3. Hot air balloon operators shall observe regular cleaning procedures, sanitizing high traffic / high usage areas and surfaces before and after every flight, including regularly disinfecting all surfaces and equipment.

  4. Hot air balloon operators shall ensure physical distancing is observed during each trip.

  5. All passengers shall fill a health declaration form and avail a proof of covid-19-free certificate before booking.

  6. Binoculars, telescopes and cameras shall not to be shared and shall be sanitized regularly. Blankets or ponchos, when provided for guest use, shall not be shared, and shall be disinfected/sanitized regularly.

5. Airline operations

  1. Implement proportionate health check procedures as appropriate according to risk assessment.

  2. Deepen and increase the frequency of aircraft and cabin cleaning.

  3. Provide masks for passengers and crew and ensuring their use during the whole flight.

  4. Implement boarding and deplaning processes that reduce contact with other passengers or crew (use front and rear doors) in respect of physical distancing rules.

  5. Limit movement within the cabin during flight.

  6. Simplify catering and other procedures that lower crew movement and interaction with passengers. 7. Facilitate people not to sit next to each other where load factors make it possible.

  7. Provide in-flight sanitizing tissues to passengers and crew members.

  8. Reduce the number of objects in the cabin (printed material and souvenirs) and limit hand luggage. 10. Adhere to any other guidelines as may be issued by KCAA from time to time.

  9. In addition to these protocols, Airlines shall be guided by International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), World Health Organisation (WHO), Ministry of Health (MoH), Kenya Civil Aviation (KCAA) guidelines that promote high standards of aviation health safety to protect air passengers and aviation workers.

6. Airport operations

Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), Immigration, Kenya Revenue Authority (Customs), Port Health and all other agencies involved in border control activities shall in line with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), World Health Organisation (WHO), Ministry of Health (MoH) and Kenya Civil Aviation (KCAA), promote high standards of aviation health safety to protect air passengers and aviation workers whilst implementing the Air Travel Operations protocols. In addition, they adapt the following:

  1. Control of unnecessary access to the airports to decongest the facilities. Only passengers, airport workers and facilitators will be allowed in the airports and terminals.

  2. Routine sanitization and disinfection of airport facilities and equipment. Hand washing facilities and sanitizers shall be placed strategically on the passenger departure and arrival concourses.

  3. Health Screening – Port Health officers shall conduct pre-flight and post-flight screening (arrivals and departures) in terms of Covid-19 symptoms, body temperatures and travelling history.

  4. Physical distancing consistent with World Health Organisation (WHO) and Ministry of Health (MOH) guidelines within airport facilities. All the service level points at the terminals shall be marked at a distance of at least 1.5 metres apart for physical distancing for queues and seating arrangements.

  5. Promotion of clean air in the terminals and lounges. Terminals and lounges shall be well-ventilated.

  6. Public education and sensitization on Covid-19 – provision of accurate and timely information, use of flight information display systems, pamphlets and brochures (across the entire passenger journey).

  7. Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) like gloves, masks, face shields by passengers and airport workers.

  8. Prohibit:
    • Self-service buffet outlets
    • Café seating and multipurpose seating
    • Smoking areas
    • Children play areas
  1. Promotion of touchless/contactless processes and technology, where possible, on-line booking and check-in, security screening, purchases and payments on phone Apps.

  2. Health self-declarations to support health authorities in contact tracing. Passenger Locator forms and Surveillance forms developed by Ministry of Health shall be filled by all travelers.
  1. Sanitization of cargo and cargo facilities both at export and import points.

  2. Communicate airport Covid-19 protocols to passengers, workers, stakeholders and members of public so that they know what to expect when they travel through the airport.

7. Management and conduct of crew at hotels

To ensure that risk of exposure to crew members through contact with local population is minimized, the following measures will apply:

  1. Crew transportation shall be done with a minimum separation of one seat between crew members.

  2. The airline shall ensure that crews do not share the transport with any passengers or other airline crew.

  3. At the resting facilities (hotel) the crew members shall not be allowed to leave the hotel facility or rooms except for emergency reasons.

  4. Only hotel room service meals and drinks will be allowed.

  5. The crew hotels rooms are to be disinfected prior to being used. In addition to the above, when crewmembers travel into high-risk areas, they shall practice health self-monitoring techniques, which shall include:
    • Measuring of body temperature at least twice a day.
    • Monitoring for symptoms such as fever, persistent coughing, or breathing difficulties.
    • Clear and expeditious reporting means to inform the operator of potential signs of infection.

F) NATIONAL PARKS/RESERVES, NATURE AND AMUSEMENT PARKS, CONSERVANCIES, GAME RANCHES, MONUMENTS, AND OTHER TOURISM ATTRACTION SITES (CLASS C AND E) ENTERPRISES.

1. National Parks

Park and reserve management shall comply with the general provision under this protocol and in addition;

  1. The Rangers on duty shall welcome the visitor, conduct security checks and direct the visitor to the screening desk to undergo COVID 19 precautionary protocols including temperature checks.

  2. The Health Care Staff shall conduct screening checks to all visitors accessing KWS managed facilities and direct visitor to their correct destination.

  3. The Customer Service Assistant (CSA) shall ensure that points of sales or point of interests’ facilities (machines/equipment/tickets) are in order and ensure continuous sanitization throughout the day.

  4. Customer Service Staff shall welcome and serve the visitors and while maintaining physical distancing at all times.

  5. All top-ups for the applicable fees to new/existing safari cards shall be done through cashless payment modes (mobile payment, bankcards, EFT or direct bank deposit) as per the customer’s request. 6. Where the customer requires a permanent/ temporary/replacement card, the CSA shall key in the customer’s details in the system for issuance/loading of the applicable conservation fees onto the card. 7. The visitor shall present the ticket at the POA for entry processing, visitors matrix, vehicle details and time of entry shall be recorded.

  6. The Gate Entry Register shall be filled by Customer Service Staff to rule out transmission or infections.

2. Game Ranches, Conservancies and other attraction sites

The managers, wardens, service providers and visitors at the ranches Conservancies and Other Attraction sites shall be required to comply with the general provision under this protocol and in addition:

  1. Have valid covid-19 free certification for core staff not more than 14-days-old from a recognized government approved facility at the first time and subsequently maintain Covid-19 prevention guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and relevant agencies.

  2. The facilities shall develop own policies/guidelines conforming to this protocol to manage guests’/staff interaction, conduct and behavior with animals in relation to Covid-19 preventive measures.

  3. Ensure monitoring of visitors and staff to guarantee compliance with the physical distancing requirements of at least 1.5 meters apart.

  4. Frequently clean and disinfect commonly shared surfaces and spaces.

  5. All attraction sites and visitors shall, while serving, taking and disposing meals, observe similar catering and accommodation facilities guidelines laid down under part three herein.

  6. All attraction sites shall where possible conduct online pre-sales of their services and products where possible.

  7. Visitors shall have specified time slots for visiting and queue management practiced to maintain physical distancing.

  8. Tourist briefing and de-briefing areas that allow the required physical distancing between visitors shall be set up.

  9. The briefing and de-briefing areas shall have hand washing facilities with clean water, soap and sanitizer for visitors.

  10. The visitors/tourist shall be required not to touch surfaces or items while touring an attraction site.

  11. The number of visitors in a specific attraction site shall be staggered to prevent overcrowding and ensure physical distancing is observed.

  12. There shall be reduced number of tour guides and leaders among a group of visitors to minimize number of interactions between them.

  13. Signage shall be posted at the entrance to attraction sites advising on social distance, hygienic wash hand process and any other Covid-19 prevention measures to be observed by the guests and staff.

  14. Visitors or staff depicting Covid-19 symptoms shall be barred from entering the attraction sites and shall be referred to the nearest health facility or county command centre informed.

  15. A register of guests to the attraction sites shall be maintained and updated at all times.

  16. Organized sporting activities in the protected area with probability of close contacts are discouraged.

  17. Adoption of cashless/contactless payment is encouraged.

  18. Public washrooms in the attraction sites shall be regularly and properly cleaned and have running water with soap for handwashing at all times.

  19. There shall be approved waste bins for litter, collection sites and appropriate disposal of used face masks, gloves and other PPEs items conforming to MOH and WHO standards.

  20. Emergency contacts for the health Authorities shall be prominently displayed.

  21. Clear signage outlining allowable activities, use and enforcement shall be placed strategically.

3. Game Drive/Nature Walk and Excursion activities

The visitors on Game Drive /Nature Walk and Excursion Activities shall be required to comply with the general provision under this protocol and in addition;

  1. As much as possible, families, tour groups and couples shall be allocated to a specific vehicle and a guide for the duration of their stay to minimize exposure to other guests and guides.

  2. All game viewers and boats shall have at least one bottle of disinfectant hand gel/ sanitizers strategically positioned to offer guests while on board.

  3. Guides and support staff shall carry their own hand sanitizers to maintain hygiene during the activity and when setting up drink stops.

  4. After the activity, all surfaces and objects used shall be sprayed with disinfectant i.e., car door handles, roll bars, boat railings, seats, binoculars or guide books used by guests, pouches behind the seats etc.

  5. Communal containers shall be replaced with prepacked and sealed individual snacks for breakfast/ sundowner stops.

  6. Visiting (full board) safari guides shall be briefed to follow these protocols.

G) HOMESTAYS, COMMUNITY/CULTURAL VILLAGES AND INFORMAL ATTRACTIONS SITES.

Homestays and community/cultural villages tourist, owners, service providers shall be required to comply with the general requirements outlined in this protocol herein and;

  1. Guests shall inform the host homestay, community/ cultural village of their intended visit at least three (3) days in advance to allow hosts to ably prepare for their visits.

  2. Homestay/ host families conducting guest hosting shall be required to have valid covid-19 free certification not more than14 days old from a recognized government approved facility at the first time and subsequently maintain Covid-19 prevention guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and relevant agencies.

  3. Guest shall only be allowed at specified homes or communities that enable guest and host keep the required physical distance and practice safe hygiene practices.

  4. Vulnerable persons, children and elderly members of the host family/community shall not be allowed to interact with guests.

  5. Guests shall have their specific utensils, furniture items, toilet facilities and sanitization items that shall not be used by members of the hosting family or community/cultural village.

  6. Unregistered/licensed homestays shall not be allowed to receive and/or accommodate guests overnight within hosting community/cultural village.

  7. Guests shall only be allowed to touch souvenir items that they purchase.

  8. Food preparation and service demonstrations by community/cultural villages shall not be allowed.

  9. Informal attractions such as Valley viewpoints and curio shops along tourist routes shall provide hygiene and sanitation facilities including running water and soap for hand washing.

  10. Great care shall be taken when using equipment to avoid sharing items such as boats and life jackets among others.

  11. Where a safari guide stops at any informal attraction site, they shall ensure strict hygiene protocols are followed including face covering essentials and sanitization before and after stopover at the sites.

H) SHOPS/CURIOS AND GENERAL VENDORS (CLASS E) ENTERPRISES.

Shops/curio vendors shall comply with the general provision of this protocol to ensure minimum contact with guest and:

  1. Have valid covid-19 free certification not more than 14-days-old from a recognized government approved facility at the first time and subsequently maintain Covid-19 prevention guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and relevant agencies.

  2. Sanitize or wash hands before and immediately after entering the work premises and after touching items or surfaces.

  3. Guests hand sanitizers/hand wash facilities shall be provided in strategic locations within and around the premises or entrance of the premises.

  4. Credit card machines, where used, shall be wiped with alcohol wipes before and after use by each guest.

  5. 70% alcohol sanitizer spray can be sprayed thinly on all items that had been touched and then allowed to evaporate (no wiping needed).

  6. Guests shall be required to properly sanitize and/or wash their hands-on initial arrival before entry to the shop.

  7. Goods/items shall be packed, cleaned and sanitized and delivered to guest’s pick-up tray/trolley or table designated for the purpose.

  8. Staff delivering packed goods/items shall stand back two metres until the guest has retrieved the goods/ items delivery.

  9. There shall be zoning of general vendors or beach traders operating in a certain locality to ensure physical distancing is maintained.

  10. General vendors shall be encouraged to belong to an association, which will ensure these protocols and MOH guidelines are followed.

  11. A register of general vendors operating in a certain locality shall be kept by local associations or local authorities for ease in tracing.

  12. Unlicensed vendors shall be barred from operating on the beach as they may pose problems in tracing.

UPDATED COVID 19 PROTOCOLS FROM THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH (MOH)

1. Re-introduction of the mandatory wearing of masks in closed/confined spaces such as in PSVs, Aircrafts,
offices, supermarkets, market places and places of worship.

2. All in person indoor meetings will however continue at full capacity of the venue as long as all the
participants are fully vaccinated. All Attendees are required to wear a facemask at their meeting venues
while all participants in in-person meetings will be required to show proof of vaccination.

3. All international Travelers arriving into the country and who are fully vaccinated remain exempted from the
requirement of a PCR test and are exempted from quarantine upon arrival in the country

4. All unvaccinated travelers arriving at any port of entry into Kenya will however be required to be in
possession of a negative COVID-19 PCR test result conducted not more than 72 hours before departure
regardless of the route of entry.

5. Unvaccinated travelers arriving at any point of entry will be subjected to rapid antigen test at their own cost
with any person who tests positive on antigen RDT subjected to entry PCR test at their own further cost and
will be required to self – isolate as per isolation guidelines.

6. All passenger service vehicles, train and domestic air flight services will continue operations at full
conveyance capacity.

7. And to reduce exposure and transmission of respiratory infections amid a rise in cases, the Ministry of health
is advising the public to stay at home especially if exhibiting a cold/flu-like symptoms, dress warmly to avoid
triggers, avoid crowded places and gatherings, wear a mask in crowded and enclosed spaces, keep well
hydrated, exercise regularly, maintain hands and body hygiene. The CS also advised Kenyans to seek
medical advice or attention at an authorized treatment facility upon development of difficulty in breathing and
adhere to prescribed medication as well as eat a healthy balanced diet, lots of fruits and vegetables, with
adequate portions of carbohydrates and protein.

8. According to Cabinet Secretary, the reviews have been based on and guided by analysis of the prevailing
epidemiological situation of the pandemic in the country and the region, whilst taking into account the
situation in other jurisdictions.

Protocols & Guidelines from the Ministry Of Health