THE Lusaka City Council (LCC) says Bars and Night Clubs in the capital city will now – with immediate effect – operate on take-away basis to avert the escalating numbers of COVID- 19.
In a statement this afternoon, LCC
Public Relations Manager George Sichimba the new measures will last for 14 before being reviewed.
Sichimba said agreement was reached at during the meeting between LCC officials and the Bars and Night Club Owners Association of Zambia held at Civic Centre today
He said Bars will be operating on take away basis on the days and times as guided by the President of Zambia Edgar Lungu.
“As opposed to the total closure of bars, the meeting settled for operating on take away basis to allow operators clear the old stock,” Sichimba said.
Announcing the new measures, Lusaka Deputy Mayor, Christopher Shakafuswa, warned that any Bar and Night Club owners who will fail to comply with the new measures risk their licences being revoked.
And Bars and Night Clubs Owners Association of Zambia president, Peter Mwale said his association pledges total support to new measures put in place by the local authority.
Mwale said his association will not side with any members that will fail to comply because the measures are aimed at protecting both workers and patrons from contracting the disease.
According to the Ministry of Health daily COVID -19 update for today, the country recorded 850 new confirmed cases in the last 24 hours with Lusaka leading with 448 cases.
“The statistics for Lusaka are worrying hence the need for the local authority to take action,” Sichimba noted.
“Members of the Public in Lusaka are generally advised to strictly follow all COVID-19 guidelines to stop the rapid spread of the disease,” added Sichimba.
©Kalemba January 7, 2021
