Vera Sidika recalls being on flight with Kenya’s first COVID-19 case
As the world marks five years since the COVID-19 pandemic changed lives globally, Kenyan veteran socialite Vera Sidika has recalled the moment the virus was first detected in Kenya and how it personally affected her.
In a post on her Instagram stories on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, Vera reminisced about the day Health Cabinet Secretary at the time, Mutahi Kagwe, announced the country’s first COVID-19 case. The patient, she revealed, was a passenger on the same flight she had boarded from London to Nairobi on March 5, 2020.
At the time, the Kenyan government had just begun implementing strict travel restrictions to curb the spread of the virus. Vera, known for her luxurious lifestyle and frequent international travel, admitted that the pandemic had a profound impact on her jet-setting ways.
“I was on this flight. KQ London to Nairobi 5th March. This is when they stopped all international flights. COVID-19 humbled me & my trips za every 2 weeks to 1 month,” Vera Sidika recalled.
Impacts of COVID-19
The first confirmed COVID-19 case in Kenya was reported on March 12, 2020, triggering a wave of measures that included lockdowns, curfews, and travel bans. Nairobi and Mombasa, being major international entry points, were among the first regions to report cases.
Schools closed nationwide, disrupting learning for millions. Many students, especially in rural areas, lacked access to online education, widening the learning gap. This led to increased dropout rates and concerns about long-term educational setbacks.
The pandemic strained Kenya’s healthcare system. Mental health issues, particularly depression, rose among adolescents and youth due to isolation and economic hardships.
Many people lost jobs or faced reduced incomes, pushing households into financial distress. Sectors like tourism and small businesses were notably impacted. Young people faced school closures and job losses, leading to increased vulnerability.
Lockdowns and restrictions led to the cancellation of concerts and events, causing significant financial losses. Many entertainment venues, including bars and clubs, were forced to close, affecting nightlife and related businesses.
With physical gatherings restricted, artistes and entertainers turned to online platforms to reach audiences. There was a notable rise in streaming demand, with platforms like TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram becoming popular for live performances.
