Govt tightens security

CHENGETAI ZVAUYA

The government says it is tightening security checks to enforce the lockdown measures it put in place to curb the spread of the deadly Covid-19 amid violations of the measures, Cabinet minister has said.

Last month, the government ordered non-essential businesses, churches, bars and the informal sector to suspend operations for a month to stem a rise in new cases of Covid-19 and deaths.

A 6pm to 6am curfew was imposed. The lockdown was extended to February 15.

Defence and War Veterans Affairs minister, Oppah Muchinguri- Kashiri, told Business Times that the government was concerned with movements and activities of people during Covid-19 lockdown and there was need for tight enforcement of the law.

“We have noted with concern that some people want to continue to operate their businesses and others move beyond the curfew times,” said Muchinguri-Kashiri, who chairs the Ministerial Task Force on the Covid-19 Outbreak.

She said the government would deal with those who are breaking the law without fear or favour.

Her warning comes at a time some night clubs and bars are operating and selling alcohol to the public despite the prohibition.

Muchinguri-Kashiri said more members of the defence forces would be deployed countrywide to ensure the enforcement of the Covid 19 regulations.

The second wave of Covid-19 has been virulent claiming high profile personalities.

This year, it has killed three ministers—Sibusiso Moyo, Joel Biggie Matiza and Ellen Gwaradzimba—and retired generals Douglas Nyikayaramba and Paradzai Zimondi.

Zimbabwe has reported more than 34 000 cases of Covid-19 since March last year, 28 000 recoveries and 1 300 deaths, according to official data obtained from the Ministry of Health and Child Care this week.

Cabinet noted on Tuesday that Zimbabwe has to accelerate the acquisition of vaccines in order to halt a potential third wave. It said there was a decline in infections and deaths as a result of the lockdown measures.