Amid new COVID-19 lockdown measures to be observed during the festive season until next month, the Rwandan Bankers Association says all bank branches will be closing at 4 p.m (2.00 pm GMT) during weekdays in order to observe recent health safety guidelines issued by the government to contain the pandemic.
A cabinet meeting held earlier last week among others, resolved that curfew hours will begin at 9 p.m. through 4 a.m. in bid to prevent the spread of Covid-19. The curfew has in previous months started at 10 p.m.
From December 22, movements will be prohibited from 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. until January 4.
According to a statement by Rwanda Bankers’ Association (RBA), the new guidelines seek to ensure that clients and banks’ staff observe the set Covid-19 directives.
The Vice-Chairperson of the Bankers’ Association, Diane Karusisi told local media that it was important to close earlier so that staff in the bank and clients as well can arrive at their respective homes earlier before the curfew hours.
The Rwandan cabinet chaired by President Paul Kagame last week issued fresh and strict guidelines to slow the spread of new Covid-19 infections.
According to the communique from the Prime Minister’s Office, all social gatherings including wedding ceremonies and celebrations of all kinds are from now on prohibited in both public and private settings.
Also banned are gyms and swimming pools, apart from those in hotels which can be used by only tested hotel residents.
CU/as/APA