04.16.20 Day 2

Days here in Uganda are shifting so slowly. It’s the second of twenty-one days of lockdown that the president announced on Tuesday. Highways are full of pedestrians walking to and from towns to earn a daily income for survival. Some people with private vehicles chose to drive them despite the presidential directive of seeking for permission from district officials only in cases of essential and inevitable conditions that require transport. Police at several checkpoints made numerous arrests of those who are violating the directives.

Markets and several businesses are open and the number and amount of activity seem to be increasing daily. Most people cannot afford to stay home for more 21 days after 2 full weeks of no working. Some markets had been closed by government officials, but have been reopened after putting in place some standard operating procedures. Handwashing stations are seen at every entrance of business premises and people have fairly adhered to the precautions.

Much as the increase of people on the streets is partly due to the need for a daily income and seeking of essential services like healthcare, the other reason could be the confidence that the public has gained after a much slower rate of infection than anticipated. The number of confirmed cases still stands at 55 in Uganda and most of them have been or are soon getting discharged after recovery. There’s no confirmed death due to Covid-19.

The difference between developed and underdeveloped nations in terms of demographics that are essential in the spread of coronavirus could be the reason behind the difference in statistics of the pandemic. That notion has made most people to question the need for a total lockdown of the entire country, hence getting back to the streets to do whatever they can. The rate of petty crimes especially those related to theft has increased in rural areas where there is no police patrol and generally low levels of law enforcement. This is basically due to lack of food and eviction of the homeless from the streets. Curfew begins at 7:00 p.m. and vulnerable people, including street children, are no exception. Their relocation to suburban communities comes with unique challenges as you can imagine.

However, the country remains calm and rural life is not generally affected. Those who live a peasant life and depend on agriculture are continuing to thrive with little or no effects from the lockdown. People have the freedom to walk to their gardens and do whatever they have to do and so the majority in rural areas are not complaining. We still remain thankful to God that He is sustaining us through miraculous ways and we cannot take anything for granted. The breath we take in every day is a blessing. And on top of that, we are hopeful and positive about everything that we’re going through. We continue to be productive mentally and sharing such experiences is something of great value to us.

We call upon everyone to hope in the Lord and maintain a healthy and positive thinking no matter what you are going through. You might be undergoing a moment of uncertainty and worrying, but God reminds us that He alone is in control and He knows our future. You may not hit your financial targets this year, but we believe that staying home longer with your family is strengthening your relationship with your spouse and children. For you see, that’s how God fills gaps. He knows where we’re weak and where there’s need. You might have placed your financial achievements on top of everything, but now you are realizing that you still live happily regardless of what you have.

We love to know that God is doing miracles in your life. You may not see them now, but we guarantee that you will be praising God some day. Your faith is growing.