After a long time of darkness, we see some traces of light. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the whole world. From education, jobs, health, entertainment to the global economy. A lot of countries have suspended their learning institutions such as primary, secondary, and universities. In turn, the teachers including the staff are going through a hard time as they have lost jobs and money. President Edgar Lungu has decided enough is enough and he will reopen schools and bars.
The increase in unemployment has affected the economies of many countries such as Kenya and South Africa. Recently, South Africa recorded a big plunge in its economy. On the part of the entertainment, places like cinemas, clubs, and bars are not operating. The authorities have shut down such places to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
The artists of various countries are also suffering because there are no events for them to perform in clubs following the closure. The closure of bars resulted in unrest in some countries such as SA. For example, the situation desperately forced some young people in South Africa to make local alcohol by using fruits such as pineapples. Zambia had also closed down its bars due to the virus but its government has decided to reopen them.
COVID-19 in Zambia
The health authorities of Zambia confirmed the first cases of the virus in the country in March this year. The victims were a couple that had gone to France. On 17 March. The Zambian authorities closed down all learning institutions and imposed limitations on outside travel.
David Mabumba, the General Education Minister, announced the way forward following the closure of schools. He said that the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation would open a program to provide education during that period. David said that the ZNBC program would commence on 13th April this year.
The Education Minister also said for those unprivileged to access Televisions, they would also get the opportunity on radios. The Zambian government also promised to introduce e-learning to permit students to learn.
Recently, there are reports on Zambia planning to reopen all schools in the nation following minor cases of the disease. According to the World Health Organization, a country with a positivity rate of less than 5% is safe to relax restrictions.
The head of state says:
“I declare the reopening of all schools, colleges, and universities with caution, between September 14 and 18 This is subject to adherence to the public health guidelines.”
The President says that the education sector has suffered financial losses since the closure of the learning institutions.
He adds:
“Since the reopening of examination classes, I have observed that there has been an insignificant number of students who have contracted Covid-19.”
The President also told the nation about the plans and strategies to increase economic growth significantly. Zambia has recorded cases over 13,000 and deaths related to the coronavirus are 300.
The reopening of schools and bar business is such a great move for the country. This is because teachers and businessmen would return to work hence reducing cases of mental stress.
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