The Lusaka City Council (LCC) has warned 165 business premises for failure to comply with COVID-19 guidelines.
Council Public Relations Manager George Sichimba told Money FM News that if the affected premises continue abrogating the set health regulations, they risk being shut down for business.
Mr. Sichimba stated that Council Public Health Inspectors have intensified enforcements of COVID-19 guidelines in public places throughout the city, in view of the escalating Coronavirus cases.
He disclosed that last week, 267 business premises were inspected, out of which 167 were found to be non-compliant and were warned accordingly.
“Most business premises have relaxed on the provision hand washing facilities/hand sanitizers, wearing of face masks and maintaining the recommended physical distance. LCC is therefore calling upon members of the public in the city to continue observing public health guidelines as the war against COVID-19 is still on,” Mr. Sichimba said.
Meanwhile, Mr. Sichimba called on religious and non-religious organizations intending to hold New Year crossover prayers or events to observe public health guidelines.
“The Council is aware that several organizations have planned for crossover events but it is also important to observe COVID-19 guidelines in terms of numbers, provision of hand washing facilities, wearing of face masks, physical distancing and exclusion of children.
“Organizers of such events are free to contact Public Health Inspectors for guidance. Better still, the Council is encouraging people to stay home and follow proceedings online where possible,” he stated.