A total of 76 arcades in Kampala central business district have been allowed to reopen after complying with the standard operating procedures (SOPs) to contain the spread of Covid-19.
However, another 70 bars will remain closed until they comply with the requirements.
The Minister for Kampala and Metropolitan Affairs, Hajat Minsa Kabanda, on Friday said that 76 arcades were found to be compliant and hence allowed to reopen.
These include Annet Plaza Aponye Mall, Apple Towers, Arua Park Plaza, Atlanta Textile, Bhatia Towers, Bulamu Bwebugagga, Bypass Arcade and Chains of Liberty Towers among others.
The 70 arcades that were found to be non-compliant are Arrow Complex, Arua Park Plaza A and B, Avemar Shopping Center, Bamako House, Bonita Arcade, Bypass Building, Center Point, Dembe Arcade and Esco Plastic House.
When the president lifted the lockdown, many arcades rushed to open before they could be inspected.
The Deputy Executive Director of KCCA, Eng. David Luyimbazi, said that they let them open but under strict observance of the set SOPs and that those that have not fulfilled the guidelines should close until they do so.
Luyimbazai said that KCCA working with security will keep monitoring the city to ensure that there is compliance to SOPs after re-opening.
The State Minister for Kampala, Kabuye Kyofatogabye, said in an effort to decongest the streets, all vendors should leave as the President had earlier instructed.
He said that starting Monday, August 9, 2021, KCCA will step up enforcement to ensure that vendors are off the streets.