Rwanda recorded 200 coronavirus cases on Sunday – the highest number in a single day since it reported its first case in March.
Most of the new cases were reported in the capital, Kigali, where the government closed two markets last week.
The country now has more than 3,000 cases of the virus and 12 deaths, with almost 1,000 of them recorded in the last two weeks.
NewsCentral reports that 23,605,542 infections and 812,757 deaths have been recorded globally.
Last week, two biggest markets in the capital were closed for one week.
The rising cases have led to concerns on the possibility of new restrictions being imposed in the capital.
Rwanda was the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to impose total lockdown after confirming its first cases.
The country recently reopened for tourism, but schools remain closed and mass sports and non-virtual entertainment activities remain banned.
NewsCentral reports that last week Rwanda announced the temporary closure of two major markets in Kigali after a spike in coronavirus cases.
Authorities claim the closure of Kigali city market and Nyabugogo market was taken after tests showed a spike in the number of confirmed cases there.
“The two markets and shops near the Kigali city market will be shut until Aug. 24 during which tests will be done for market vendors,” the statement signed by Kigali City mayor Pudence Rubingisa said. It added that during this time, the premises of the market would also be disinfected.
“Traders with perishable goods would be given time to remove their merchandise in respect of health guidelines to prevent coronavirus spread. The market leadership will in due course be informed, where the affected businesses would be relocated.”
