Sudan Locks Down Capital Khartoum after Coronavirus Cases Rise.

Sudan Locks Down Capital Khartoum after Coronavirus Cases Rise.
Sudan

The Federal Ministry of Health in Sudan reported 30 COVID-19 cases within 24 hours. Hence an increase in the number of coronavirus patients in the country to 66. Following the rampant increase in coronavirus cases, the government placed the state’s capital under a twenty-one-day lockdown.

The Ministry of Health stated that of the confirmed cases,27 of them were from Khartoum, one in Gazeera. While the other two first cases from White Nile. They also reported 10 death tolls.

Since 90% of coronavirus patients are from Khartoum, this poses a great threat to the country. Especially because they already have a crippled economy. Therefore, a corona pandemic in the country will strain the already weakened health system.

Restricted movements while allowed to access basic services.

However, despite the lockdown, the state’s spokesperson, Faisal Salih stated useful businesses will remain functional. For instance, the pharmacies and groceries will remain open for limited hours in a day. He also said they will restrict people’s movements. Similarly, the nation is also under curfew, banned from air travels and all long-distance movements in the state suspended.

Equivalently government has deployed soldiers, military and police force to ensure maximum security and controlled movement. As such the citizens are prohibited from making travels across the country. Al-Toum cautioned that they will prosecute anyone who violates the lockdown measures.

Furthermore, the government had banned all public gatherings. Even the gatherings during prayers in the mosques.

Sudan requests support from the UN

The prime minister has also pledged to the United Nations requesting support as they are having a shortage of health equipment. For instance, the medical team is having a shortage of protective wear i.e. masks, gloves and gowns. They are also experiencing a crisis of testing kits.

Since the protective clothing is essential in the fight against coronavirus, extra help to the government of Sudan will do. Especially since because of the previous civil violence caused by political crises crippled their economy.

Besides, based on the knowledge from the UN economic commission, about 300000 people in Africa will suffer because of the pandemic. However, since some will succumb and Sudan is definitely among the countries that will suffer mainly because of the poor infrastructure.

Al Bashir’s incompetence during his time in power.

Sudan has a poor health system, which is because of poor governance by Omar Al Bashir. During his 30-year rule, he neglected the health sector of the country. Leaving citizens susceptible to infections. The country’s health minister reported to Reuters they needed funds worth $120 million to combat the virus.

During president Al Bashir’s rule not only was the economy of Sudan crippled but also many civilians lost their lives. Sudan is among the vulnerable African states despite being rich in resources. It is unfortunate the nation is on lockdown with fewer supplies.

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