Bulawayo Mayor Solomon Mguni has warned against complacency in the fight against Covid-19 after the government ordered bars to reopen to fully vaccinated patrons.
Mayor Mguni noted in 2020 when lockdown restrictions were relaxed, some residents became complacent leading to a spike in Covid-19 cases.
The government on Tuesday announced that all licensed bars and nightclubs can open to fully vaccinated clients and that the owners must adhere to World Health Organisation (WHO) and national protocols and guidelines.
Speaking at a full council meeting Wednesday, Cllr Mguni encouraged the Health, Housing and Education Committee, to raise awareness among residents on the importance of adhering to the stipulated prevention measures.
“It is very pertinent to encourage residents not to be complacent due to the relaxation of the restrictions. We all remember what happened last year when the same happened. We had a serious surge in statistics which resulted in the government calling for another strict lockdown. After the festive season, we had a catastrophe of new infections. May people enjoy themselves responsibly in these times,” said Mayor Mguni.
Deputy Mayor, Cllr Mlandu Ncube warned residents to drink from designated areas and shun making use of illegal drinking spots as this would lead them to getting arrested.
“May the councillors encourage people in their wards to drink from designated areas to avoid being caught on the wrong side of the law. The police will be heavily descending on the unregistered areas so residents should not be found wanting. Shebeens are not registered nor are house gatherings for illegal drink-ups,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ward 5 Cllr Felix Mhaka implored the council to visit premises and houses that serve food in residential areas to ensure that they adhere to the city health laws.
Cllr Mhaka said testing of food premises is mostly concentrated in the city center leaving those on the outside operating without licenses nor adhering to health regulations placing the health of the people at risk.
