For the last three consecutive days, the number of new coronavirus infections has dropped to single digit. This is a feat that is worth celebrating considering that the rate at which new infections was a cause for concern after the Ministry of Health was reporting triple digits just a few weeks back. The progress in managing the spread influenced the easing of restrictions. The government last week reduced curfew hours, approved the gradual opening of schools, and re-opened inter-provincial public transport. The relief from parents, students, transporters, and Rwandans who could not visit their families who live upcountry cannot be underestimated. The easing of the restrictions was definitely a great welcome development. That said, the gains in controlling the spread of the virus must be jealously protected. The experiences from other countries and from the Rwandan community as well is that any form of complacency will put the country at risk of the virus spreading again. And, any increase in the spread, will compromise the current journey of returning to normal. That said, it is to everyone’s benefit that the preventive guidelines that have enabled the drop in new infections should be maintained. These include frequently washing hands, properly wearing masks, and social distancing. As we begin the last quarter of 2020, let us collectively work towards the goal of zero new infections. We have experienced the reward for a drop in cases, and there are more rewards in the pipeline if slowing the rate of new infections continues. The fight against Covid-19 will only be completely eliminated when a successful vaccine is available and accessible to all Rwandans. In the meanwhile, the greatest weapon is to adhere to the recommendations of the scientists on how to stop the virus from spreading. And, by looking at the current data, we are on the right track.
