Kampala RCC directs closure of Shoprite Lugogo, Forest Mall for flouting of Covid-19 SOPs

The deputy Resident City Commissioner (RCC) Nakawa, Herbert Anderson Burora has directed the closure of Shoprite Lugogo and Forest Mall with immediate effect over alleged flouting of Covid-19 standard operating procedures that were put in place to contain the spread of the pandemic in the country.

In a letter dated Tuesday July 13 2021, Burora indicated that he had had a conversation with the managers of the two facilities on phone over security concerns following the presidential directives on Covid-19. But they did not take heed.

"It is unfortunate that they were not followed by management of the premises. It is from that concern that effective 14th July 2021, the mall will be closed," he directed.

Burora indicated that for the two shopping facilities to remain open, they should ensure that all financial institutions that operate within to reopen and shall prove that they have provided transport to their workers and that they have installed all SOPs as guided by health standards.

"Private cars shall not be allowed into the premises apart from those that identity with essential services provided within the promises. All restaurants shall prove social distancing measures as opposed to the existing management," Burora advised.

Uganda imposed more stringent measures to control Covid-19 following a surge in the cases of Covid-19 in the country.

The government instituted a 42-day lockdown during which time all schools and institutions of higher learning have remained closed but allowed shopping malls, factories and supermarkets to operate under strict standard operating procedures.