KAARO KARUNGI | OPINION – There are no questions, COVID – 19 infections are increasing at an increase rate. This is so mainly because many in Uganda decided to ignore the SOPs.
Where we are, some circles believe a total lockdown is the way forward. Unfortunately, that is wrong. When Uganda got to a lockdown in March 2020, many people had something. People had some savings etc.
The truth is that though many sectors have been opened, many are limping and a good number still have outstanding debts and many are out of work.
People have to be left to work, but the SOPs need to be seriously enforced by Government organs. You cannot tell people to sit home when they have no food.
It is important to understand what the lockdown did.
1. Many people who would have been saved died due to failure to get transport to health facilities.
2. Domestic violence increased and many lives were lost. This time round, it will be worse.
3. Pregnancies more so of school going children / students will again be the norm as the vulnerable seek means of survival.
4. More cases involving the security personnel and the local people as people try all means to fend for their families.
In conclusion, Ugandans will suffer a lot if another lockdown is imposed and at some point, Government may fail to enforce it as people have to fight for a living and as such will do whatever possible to earn.
So, it is the enforcement of the SOPs and limiting the gatherings as much as possible.
By William Kiwanuka kituuka
