Six markets in Arua closed over flouting SOPs

Arua, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | Six major markets in Arua district have been closed for flouting the Covid-19 standard operating procedures. Three of the markets were closed on Monday while others on Tuesday.

The affected markets include Arivu in Arivu sub county, Ajia in Ajia sub county, Nyio, and Ejupala in Vurra sub county, Kampala and Adraka in Logiri sub county.

Some of the markets have continued to attract traders from the Democratic Republic of Congo-DRC, Arua City and Zombo district posing a great risk of spreading Covid-19.

Festus Ayikobua, the RDC Arua says that some of the traders sneak into the district from other districts hence necessitating the closure.

Alfred Okuonzi the LC V chairperson Arua says that the markets have continued to attract buyers and sellers from outside the district which directly violates the president’s directive on preventing Covid-19. Okuonzi adds that they will also communicate to authorities in DRC to block traders from crossing into Uganda.

Micah Avubieng, the community liason officer Arua City and district noted that in addition to closing the major markets, security has decided to close the borders with DRC.

Zubairi Abima, the tenderer of Nyio produce and livestock market said though they will lose out on revenue, they welcome the decision to close the market since the threat of corona has increased.

The District Covid-19 task force and security team have also resolved to deploy personnel at other smaller markets to ensure that all locals in that area observe the standard operating procedures.

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