This archive report was first published on 1 January 2022.
As the world grapples with the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has announced a plan to reopen the country's economy in a staggered manner from January 2022.
Speaking on the eve of the New Year 2022, President Museveni emphasized that the economy will reopen gradually, with performing arts, cinemas, sports events, bars, and events set to resume two weeks after schools reopen on January 10, 2021, with strict adherence to health guidelines.
Uganda has recorded 140,737 coronavirus cases since the outbreak in March 2020, with a significant spike in cases and fatalities in the last month of 2021. In response, the government has implemented various measures to contain the spread of the virus, including a 7pm-5am curfew that started mid-2021.
However, President Museveni has announced that the curfew will be lifted for everyone once performing arts resume, two weeks after school resumption, but with a caveat that boda-bodas will be barred from operating beyond 7pm.
The transport sector, which has been operating at half capacity, will be allowed to operate at full capacity as long as both travelers and operators are fully vaccinated, except for those below 18 years of age.
President Museveni also urged Ugandans to embrace vaccination, citing the importance of protecting oneself and others from the virus. He encouraged at least 22 million Ugandans aged over 18 to come out and be vaccinated, emphasizing that scientists have recommended booster doses for those 50 years and above.
As the country looks to the new year, President Museveni preached hope, urging Ugandans to minimize borrowing by the government and address the issue of high-interest rates, which has seen the country pay Ushs15.16 trillion in debts each year, with Shs4.9 trillion being interest.
