The American government has set motion arrangements for its citizens to leave Uganda after confirmation of 8 COVID -19 cases in different parts of the country.
According to the US Embassy Kampala social media platforms, the American authorities thanked the Ugandan government for allowing special arrangements for the US citizens to be evacuated out of the country.
“ We thank the government of Uganda for working with us to arrange this option for American citizens who desire to return home. The US Embassy in Kampala has confirmed the availability of seats on a commercial flight with Qatar Airways from Entebbe to Doha,” a statement issued by the Embassy reveals.
The Embassy notes that this is the only remaining way to exit Uganda following the airport closure. Also in the statement, the American Embassy says that this is not an evacuation mission, it advises its citizens that, “ if you need to leave Uganda, consider contacting Qatar Airways as soon as possible about this flight .”
On March 19 the US Department of State advised U.S citizens to avoid all international travel due to the global impact of COVID-19. Similarly, Uganda has a government led by President Yoweri Museveni has since closed Entebbe international airport and all border entry points to avoid the spread for the deadly corona pandemic.
Ugandans have since been advised by President Museveni and Ministry of Health Officials to avoid people who are coughing and sneezing, avoided crowded places and public travel and wash hands regularly.
Balancing the health of the people and the health of the economy
For now, President Museveni said he was grappling with a decision on whether to limit public transportation and workers in factories. He emphasised that if proper hygiene is practiced the spread of the virus can be contained. The President said taxis and buses should not transport people who are coughing and sneezing on top of having every passenger wash their hands.
