An estimated 7,000 are dead as about 180,000 people worldwide have tested positive for the Covid-19 (Sars-CoV-2) coronavirus. Over 145 nations or territories have confirmed cases of the pathogen so far. In this brief report, we present the latest information from African nations.

Kenya

As of March 16th, Kenya has 3 confirmed cases of the Covid-19 coronavirus. The nation is currently under partial shutdown as President Uhuru Kenyatta announced the closure of schools and higher education institutions, imposed travel restrictions, and stated that anyone with a cough or fever should be tested for the virus. Travelers from any nation with reported cases of the pathogen are barred from entering Kenya for the next 30 days, though this can be extended if necessary. Kenyans and foreigners with residence permits will be allowed to return home on the condition they agree to a 14 day self-quarantine.

In addition, to promote cashless transactions, Safaricom, Kenya's largest mobile phone operator, removed fees for any mobile money transactions under 1000 shillings (about 10 United States dollars).  

Morocco

Morocco has confirmed at least 29 cases of Covid-19, and will be temporarily closing cafes, restaurants, movie theaters, mosques, and hammams (public baths). The nation's interior minister stated that stores selling necessary goods, food, and medicine along with restaurants offering delivery are exempt from the closure.  

Somalia

Somali minister of health Fowsiya Abukar stated that the first Covid-19 case has been confirmed after a Somali national returning from abroad tested positive. For the next 2 weeks, the nation will be suspending all international flights in an attempt to prevent the virus from entering Somalia, and this suspension may be extended depending on the circumstances.  

Algeria

All flights and ships arriving from Europe will be suspended effective March 19th after Algeria reported 4 deaths and at least 48 confirmed cases of Covid-19. Flights from Burkina Faso, Cote d'Ivoire, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Saudi Arabia, and Senegal will also be temporarily suspended.