Authorities in Uganda have moved to further ease restrictions on several social and economic activities as a measure to enforce phased lifting of the lockdown imposed on the country in March to curb the spread of coronavirus.
According to a statement released by Health Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, mass gatherings for prayers, political rallies, meetings and weddings can now surpass 70 people but shall not exceed 200 persons.
In the press conference held on Monday evening in Kampala, Dr. Aceng revealed that government is considering a phased lifting of the lockdown in the country.
The other areas that have been given green light to resume operations include open cinemas, gyms, massage parlors and mobile markets and these are to effectively commence on 14th November 2020.
However, Bars, discotheques shall remain closed while Casinos, gaming outlets have a chance to resume if they fulfil all the Standard Operation Procedures (SOPs) and guidelines of Ministry of health.
“Considering the phase of the epidemic Uganda is in, with rising cases and deaths in urban areas, suspension on bars and discotheques will continue” the statement adds.
Casinos and gaming outlets may also resume operations after fulfilling conditions included in the SOPs beginning 14th November, 2020. Hours of operation for Casino’s and Gaming centers will be restricted to 6:30am to 7pm.
Previously, government allowed sports activities to resume, and worship centers but not exceeding 70 people.
According to the Ministry of Health, results of COVID-19 tests done on 08 November 2020 confirmed 171 new cases sending the cumulative number of coronavirus cases in Uganda to 14,574. One new COVID-19 death was also recorded in Kampala sending the total COVID-19 deaths to 133.
According to ministry of Healthy, the other bans not mentioned in the statement stayed as they have been before.
