Bars And Night Clubs Open In Lusaka

Some bars and night clubs have reopened in Lusaka, defying government directives on such businesses staying closed during the coronavirus pandemic.

Several business owners have complained of what they view as unequal treatment after President Lungu allowed other businesses, including restaurants, casinos, cinemas and gyms to open, provided they conform with public health measures on social distancing and hand washing.

Bar and night club owners have accused the government of favouring foreign-owned businesses at the expense of locally-owned enterprises that provide employment for thousands of Zambians.

On June 12th, the secretary general of the Bars and Night Clubs Association of Zambia, Edmond Lifwekelo, urged business-owners to reopen if authorities continue to ignore their pleas. 

Media reports over the weekend found bars in Lusaka townships operating normally, with cars parked without any observance for social distancing. 

Zambia Police Service Spokesperson Esther Katongo has advised bar owners to ignore the advice of the Bar and Night Club Association and remain closed. She has urged owners to remain patient and to allow authorities to guide them on when it will be safe to resume business.