The government of the Gambia has announced the reopening of hotels, bars, restaurants and gyms in the country effective 15th October 2020, despite the Gambia still having 929 active cases with 118 deaths.

According to statement by the government’s spokesperson,

“President Adama Barrow is pleased to declare public places such as hotels, motels, lodges, bars, restaurants, video clubs, museums, public swimming pools and gymnasia throughout The Gambia, open.”

The statement added that, the police are empowered to inspect premises without prior notice at any given time, warning that anyone who breaches a provision of this Public Health Orders, 2020, is liable on conviction to a fine of Two Thousand Dalasi (D2000) or imprisonment for three (3) months or both.”

“operators of the various businesses must ensure an employee who displays any symptom of COVID-19 or came into close contact with a person infected with COVID-19 is excused from work.” the statement said.

Employees are also advised to use gloves when serving food or handling trash and make sure hand cleansing hygiene materials are available at all times for use by employees and customers at the entrance. Maximum number or people allowed within the premises is limited to no more than two-third of the usual number, and restaurant owners and managers shall ensure that utensils and cutleries are disinfected and heated after every use.”

By: Sarjo D. Bojang