The closure of bars as a measure to curb the spread of Covid-19 has taken a huge toll on the entire ecosystem that depend on them for business.

This include the waiters, beer distributors, investors even the land lords who have lost tenants as many clubs have closed.

Though they admit that Covid is a real threat, many are beginning to view the closures as an equal threat to their lively hood.

“It feels like the government really hates us,” Dj Joe Mfalme said. They are engaging with every other sector to try and re-open things but for us they just shut us down without even thinking twice. Right now my bookings are coming from Tanzania plus the tv and radio jobs I do, but the smaller dj’s are the ones who are really suffering.”

Many feel that the stricter regulation placed on clubs and bars are not necessarily based on safety but because they are viewed as a vice by the society.

They argue that churches, supermarkets and matatus all pose an equal risk of infection as clubs.

Recent accusations of the misappropriation of Covid funds have deepened concerns with public confidence in the government waivering.

Stakeholders are demanding equal consideration to be allowed to operate under certain health guidelines.

“@ukenyatta Kindly on behalf of the Creative Industry of Kenya we are Requesting that you allow us to get back to work, allow for the reopening of Clubs and Restaurants,” Kenyan rapper Khaligraph Jones wrote on his Instagram.

“Measures and precautions shall be taken to ensure Covid 19 doesn't further spread, The youth are suffering from Depression in Silence.”

Veteran rock Dj and strong agitator for DJ rights, Gordo admitted that many Deejays are suffering in silence.

The craft requires people to put up a certain front to protect their brand but the reality on the ground is that.

He says,

“Only those with side hustle or family wealth are surviving in this period, the Ksh 100 M stimulus by the government was a welcome relief but it can only do so much. As we speak Dj’s in Nyeri and Mombasa are depending on relief food to get by."

Adding,

"If clubs are not opened soon many of them will not survive, I just hope they don't descend to crime or suicide because guys are depressed."