The border districts of Rusizi and Rubavu in the Western Province will remain isolated from the rest of the country as key services like motorbike transport and inter-provincial travel resume.
The decision was taken at an extraordinary meeting of the Cabinet chaired by President Paul Kagame on 2 June at Village Urugwiro.
“Motos are permitted to carry passengers except in Rusizi and Rubavu districts. This follows a recent COVID-19 assessment across the country,” a statement released by Prime Minister Dr Edouard Ngirente on June 3 reads in part.
“Public and private transport between provinces shall resume except movement to and from Rusizi and Rubavu districts. Transport of goods and cargo will continue with no more than two people on board,” it further adds.
The Cabinet stressed that travel to and from the districts of Rusizi and Rubavu is prohibited after several cases have been reported in the border town of Rusizi. The explanation why Rubavu was among the districts that remain closed to the rest of the country is not yet clear.
Under the new regulations, non-contact sporting activities were allowed but comprehensive guidance must be issued by the Ministry of Sport.
Among the general prevention measures that will remain in effect include compulsory screening and monitoring for COVID-19 nationwide, wearing of safety masks in public at all times.
Movements are also prohibited from 9 PM until 5 AM.
The Cabinet resolved that public and private businesses will continue with essential staff while other employees continue working from home.
“All resumed services must continue adhering to health guidelines from health authorities (hand hygiene, mask-wearing and social distancing). All traders are required to accept digital payments as an alternative form of payment. These measures will be reviewed after 15 days upon a health assessment,” the statement reads.
