Uganda’s President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Friday eased the lockdown restrictions following the decline of Covid-19 cases in the country.
Ministry of Health figures show that Covid-19 cases have reduced from over 1,000 cases registered daily in June to about 70 cases daily now.
Museveni said in a televised address after 42 days of a re-imposed lockdown, that the decision was made by the National Task Force after considering a decrease in cases and positivity rates.
He said public transport will resume on August 2 but with 50 percent passenger capacity. Private transport was also reopened but vehicles will only be allowed to carry three people including the driver.
"No air conditioning is allowed in all public transport. Transport associations are directed to self-regulate themselves," said Museveni. "The Boda bodas [commercial motorcycle operators] are now allowed to carry one passenger but must stop moving at 6 pm".
Museveni said all public gatherings including places of worship would remain closed over the next 60 days and that wedding and burial ceremonies are allowed to take place but with only 20 people in attendance.
He further said schools, tertiary institutions and universities would also remain closed with the exception of medical schools that will soon reopen after the ministry of education announces the opening procedures.
The Ugandan leader said shopping malls and business centres are reopened but they must adhere to the standard operating procedures on the prevention of COVID-19.
The night curfew from 7 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. remains in place, according to Museveni.
"Indoor games, music concerts and comedy shows remain closed for another 42 days. The artists are encouraged to hold their concerts online," said Museveni. "Gaming and sports betting, bars remain closed and violators including revelers and bar owners to be arrested."