Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni on Monday extended the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown for another 14 days while easing some of the restrictions aimed at stopping the spread of the virus.
In a TV address, President Museveni said the lockdown will now expire in two weeks instead of the earlier announced May 5.”We must, therefore, basing ourselves on the limited preparations, start slowly and carefully to open up without undoing our gains so far in fighting COVID-19,” said Museveni.
He said wholesalers, hardware shops and warehouses will be allowed to open but must observe social distancing principles of two meters and use of masks.”Since cargo trucks are moving, they need mechanics. We shall allow the opening of repair workshops and garages,” said Museveni.”Metal and woodwork shops will be open. Insurance providers will be added to the list of essential services,” he said.
Like many destinations that have opened partially, Restaurants will be allowed to operate, with only take-away meals option. However, the movement of private and public vehicles transport will remain shut, except for essential service providers, ambulances and security forces.
The borders, airports, schools, universities, places of worship will remain closed and public gatherings banned.
Uganda is one of “The curve of the COVID-19 pandemic in Uganda is quite flat. This means we have somehow tamed the virus although we can’t say that we have eliminated it,” said Museveni.
So far, Uganda has confirmed 89 coronavirus cases, with 55 recoveries since the outbreak was announced on March 21.
