This archive report was first published on 18 May 2020.
On May 18, 2020, President Museveni unveiled plans to partially lift the lockdown in Uganda, allowing private and public transport to resume on June 2, after the distribution of approved masks.
According to the President, public and private transport will resume once the Ministry of Health-approved face masks are ready, which is expected to take two weeks.
President Museveni emphasized that the masks will help prevent the spread of COVID-19, stating, 'We believe that with the masks you do not infect others and you also do not get infected.'
Under the new rules, public transport means like minibuses and taxis will be allowed to operate, but with only half of their normal capacity.
However, boda-bodas and 'tuk-tuks' will not be allowed to carry passengers but will be permitted to deliver cargo.
Hotels and restaurants will also be allowed to open, but with strict social distancing measures in place, including no air conditioning.
Additionally, arcades will remain closed, and the mixing of food and non-food items in market locations will be barred.
Only finalists will be allowed to resume classes and sit for their exams, while the rest of the classes will have to wait.
President Museveni also emphasized the importance of social distancing measures, stating, 'With education, the only safe action we can do for now is to open for the candidate classes and that will be on June 2 when the masks are ready.'
Bars, lounges, and hangout spots will remain closed until further notice, as well as salons, saunas, swimming pools, and other social gathering places that have failed to implement social distancing measures.
The daily curfew from 7pm to 6:30am will also remain in effect to limit uncontrolled movement and curb the spread of COVID-19.
