The archbishop of the church of Uganda RT Rev Dr. Steven Kazimba has called upon the government to reconsider opening the places of worship while easing the lockdown measures amidst the COVID-19 pandemic with Standard Operating Measures in place issued by the Ministry of Health.
There has been a lot of controversy surrounding the issue of re-opening places of worship since the ease of lockdown measures set in place to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. While private cars went back on the road, public transportation resumed, shops, malls, hardwares, restaurants; all places that encourage public gathering were allowed to operate under Standard Operating Procedures set by ministry of health; the question still remains on why churches are still under lock and key.
“It’s time we explore measures to live with the COVID-19 pandemic, first with the reopening of places of worship.” People Power Spokesperson Joel Ssenyonyi said while addressing a press conference at the PP Headquarters. Having had a scientific wedding himself as proof that life must go on with covid-19 in our midst, Joel urged the government to focus on life ahead just like Kenya re-opened her churches.
Rev. Steven Kazimba praised media houses for the role that has been excellently done in amplifying the works of the church, especially during this Covid19 pandemic where places of worship have been closed. He said this during a courtesy visit at Next Media.
Government in March banned all public gatherings, and while Churches are highly depended upon by the community as a source of comfort, shelter, congregation, revenue and most importantly, worshipping together as a central part of being a church, reopening them might ultimately increase the spread of COVID-19.
