Ethiopian religious institutions have begun a month-long prayer and fasting for an end to coronavirus (COVID19) pandemic.
The launching event was attended by President Sahle-Work Zewde, religious leaders and a minute of silence was held to remember those who have died from the coronavirus in Ethiopia and worldwide.
In her remarks, President Sahle-Work extended her gratitude to the religious institutions for contributing their shares to the national COVID-19 containment efforts.
Those who have strictly adhered to advises given by healthcare professionals managed to deter the spread as well as protect themselves and their families form the virus.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health has confirmed eight new cases of coronavirus (COVID19) out of the 264 samples that were tested over the past 24 hours.
This brings the total COVID19 cases in Ethiopia to 52.
Seven of the confirmed cases are Ethiopian nationals. The other is a 30-year-old Eritrean woman.
Among the confirmed cases include a nine-month-old baby and his mother, according to a statement issued by the Ministry.
Ethiopia has so far reported two deaths and four recoveries from the virus.
According to the latest figures from Johns Hopkins University, more than 1.3 million cases of coronavirus have been registered globally.
Nearly 76,000 people have died and more than 289,000 have recovered from the virus.
MG/abj/APA