We are facing a worldwide pandemic of unprecedented magnitude and virulence. We are experiencing restrictions and lockdowns. We are learning that life is not just about surviving. But what about the people who are living in countries, which are not as affluent as the countries of the so-called global north?
How is the situation in Uganda? The capital city Kampala has been under lockdown since the 19th March, when the president Museveni first held a speech referring to the topic. He announced a prohibition of rallies and events, the schools and universities were closed and the freedom of movement has been restricted. After the first confirmed case of Covid-19 some more restrictions followed. The public transport has been banned and between the time of 7 pm up to 6.30 am no one is allowed to be outside on the streets. Even private cars are forbidden to use, so that only the so-called “Boda Boda” are left outside to do delivery services. Social distancing in crowded ghettos where many families live together and share the hygiene facilities is not possible. Nevertheless, the number of confirmed Covid-19 cases in Uganda is still small compared to e.g. countries of Europe. A reason might be that they do not test as much as we can in the global North. But still are the consequences of the lockdown worse than the virus itself! The violence increased and the Ugandans are more and more struggling to feed their families and themselves or to pay the rent as the lockdown continues to go on.
Many Ugandans are usually living from day to day. They have to earn their daily bread from their small shops and market stalls, from the public transport and the “Boda Boda” rides. Most of them are day labourers without any savings. In times of Corona they are not able to earn the money they need to maintain the basic needs such as food, hygiene articles and a safe place to sleep. It now depends on small organisations like “Young and Relentless” to support the families in need and help them getting through the tough time.