{"id":991593,"url":"http://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/991593/?format=json","text_counter":439,"type":"other","speaker_name":"","speaker_title":"","speaker":null,"content":"THAT, aware that the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) a global health pandemic and that the pandemic has led to an unprecedented global health crisis; Cognizant that the Government, non-governmental institutions, well-wishers and health authorities globally have joined hands and put in place a number of measures to contain the pandemic, mainly through travel and behavioural restrictions, provision of necessary protective facilities, equipping existing health facilities, availing resources; and providing necessary assistance and information; Appreciating the policy measures and interventions being undertaken by the Government, through the multi-agency National Emergency Response Committee on Coronavirus (NERC) led by the Ministry of Health, to contain the spread of the pandemic and cushion Kenyans against its social and economic effects; Further cognizant of the legislative measures proposed by the Executive, including the establishment of the COVID-19 Fund, the reduction of the Value Added Tax, amongst others; Further appreciating the role of National Assembly in taking necessary legislative interventions and offering the necessary political and legislative support, whenever required; Concerned that, COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the country’s economy and that economic development outcomes are expected to be seriously affected by the interruption caused by the virus both globally and locally; Deeply concerned that, the Government faces significant fiscal challenges as the national economy faces contraction because of the effects of COVID-19 pandemic, a The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor."}