This archive report was first published on 5 June 2020.
Uganda has taken a significant step in its fight against Covid-19 by introducing mandatory testing for its ministers, following a positive test result among staffers in the prime minister's office.
According to the Health Ministry, the move comes as the country gradually lifts its lockdown, which was put in place by President Yoweri Museveni three months ago.
As of Friday, Uganda had recorded 557 Covid-19 cases, with no reported deaths and 82 recoveries.
Prime Minister Dr Ruhakana Rugunda has taken the precautionary measure of self-isolating, despite testing negative for the virus, citing health recommendations.
“Friends, I have gone into self-isolation after some of my contacts tested positive for Covid-19. My own test result is negative, however, I have taken this decision as a health recommended measure,” Dr Ruhakana tweeted on Friday.
Ministers are required to undergo a second test after 14 days, according to Emmanuel Ainebyona, a Health Ministry spokesman.
