Uganda eases more COVID-19 restrictions

Uganda on Tuesday started a phased opening as it eased restrictions imposed in March to contain the COVID-19 pandemic in the country.
   Private transport, shops, hotels and restaurants resumed operations with strict observation of social distancing guidelines and wearing face masks.
   Judith Nabakooba, minister for information, communications, technology and national guidance said in a tweet that motorists, shops, hotel and restaurants owners must heed to the guidelines issued by President Yoweri Museveni and the ministry of health.
   "Motorists, hotel and restaurants owners should follow the set rules and not be caught on the wrong side of the law," said Nabakooba.
   According to the guidelines, each private vehicle is supposed to have a maximum of three people including the driver. They must all wear face masks.
   Private transport however is still banned in the country's border districts in a bid to limit the spread of the virus from neighboring countries.
   According to government guidelines, public transport will be opened on June 4 and passenger service vehicles would only be allowed to carry passengers up to half of their capacities. All passengers will be expected to wear face masks.
   Education institutions will also open on June 4, but only candidate students would be allowed to attend class because of the social distancing measures.
   All the other restrictions like closure of the country's borders except for cargo transport still remain in place, according to the government.
   Uganda currently has 222 cases of COVID-19, out of which 69 have recovered and the country has reported no death, according to the ministry of health. (Xinhua)