This archive report was first published on 19 May 2020.
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has announced a major initiative to combat the spread of the coronavirus in the country. In a televised address, he revealed plans to distribute free face masks to all citizens aged six and above.
According to the president, the masks will be distributed through the Local Council (LC) system, with one mask per person of age six and above. The masks must be worn all the time when in public, whether sneezing, talking, or coughing.
Mr. Museveni emphasized that children below the age of six cannot safely wear the masks. The distribution of the masks is expected to take two weeks, with public transport set to resume on June 2, 2020.
However, the president announced that public transport will not be allowed in the border districts of Uganda for another 21 days. Additionally, boda bodas and tuk tuks will not be allowed to carry passengers, while bars, salons, gyms, and swimming pools will remain closed for the next 21 days.
People with private cars will be allowed to drive, but each car must not carry more than three people, including the driver. The driver and passengers must wear proper masks.
The ongoing curfew will remain in force for another 21 days.
