The Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Hon Judith Nabakooba has revealed that there will not be any lockdown during the festive season apart from the existing curfew and other SOPs.
She made the revelation while addressing the public on the country’s COVID-19 status at the Uganda Media Centre.
Her comments were based on several online reports that have been pointing at a festive season lockdown following a spike in community infections.
“There will not be any lockdown during the festive season apart from the existing curfew and other SOPS. However, I call upon everyone to be extra careful,” Nabakooba said.
Nabakooba urged the public to stay away from any form of festive temptations that could expose them to catching COVID-19.
“Discotheques and music concerts are still under lock and not allowed to operate. For those travelling, ensure that you follow all the guidance on masks and social distancing,” said Nabakooba.
She called upon all leaders in the markets to restore the hand washing facilities that existed earlier in the year.
“I know people will be rushing to the salons for haircuts, all those using public taxis and buses, take extra caution,” she said.
She mourned the death of Uganda’s Second Deputy Prime Minister, Hajji Ali Kirunda Kivejinja who according to President Museveni, died of COVID-19
“Kivejinja has been a temple of wisdom that provided regular guidance to government. Uganda has lost a strong cadre, a strong Pan Africanist who believed in a strong and unified Africa,” she said.
Uganda is currently at Stage four of the Coronavirus pandemic with the health systems overstretched by the rising infections.
By Sunday, the country was counting 31,187 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 231 Coronavirus related deaths