NOTE: Originally written by Carol Parker on April 29, 2020.
Hello Everyone-
It’s been 6 weeks since the first case of coronavirus was reported in Tanzania.
As of yesterday, the count is 299 cases, with 10 deaths. There is no way for us to know if the virus is wider-spread than the figures state because widespread testing is not being carried out and only those who report to health care facilities and are ill with likely infection are being tested.
Perhaps the absolute best thing the Tanzanian government has done to protect its citizens is to close the borders to visitors and traders. This has limited the potential exposure rate from those who would unknowingly carry the virus into the country, but it comes with a price. Tourism is the biggest industry in the country, and thousands of those employed by tour companies, hotels, and other allied companies are without customers and income. In the long run, it will be impossible to make up for that loss of national financial support.
President John Magufuli is a very devout Catholic. Although he initially closed gatherings of more than 20 people, he decreed that the churches all be opened on Easter, and subsequently called for a 3- day national prayer period to combat coronavirus. The schools, which were originally closed for one month, remain closed.
Our experience of the Tanzanian people as caring and openhearted continues, as every day I receive texts and emails from our friends and partners checking up on how we are doing, and if we are remaining healthy.
Please keep Tanzania in your hopeful thoughts as we move through this time.
Carol