Non-contact sports may resume activities starting on Monday, June 1, in compliance with safety guidelines, the Ministry of Sports announced on Friday.

Since March 15, all sporting activities – events, leagues and competitions – in the country have been on hold as the government applies strict measures to prevent the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Cycling, one of the most popular sports in Rwanda, is one of the non-contact outdoor sports allowed to resume. Others include; jogging, athletics, individual physical fitness, outdoor exercises, hiking, cycling, golf, tennis, fencing, motor sports and badminton.

According to the statement from the ministry, athletes must wear face-masks before and after their exercise sessions, and should always carry hand sanitizers and use them whenever necessary. Additionally, they should observe at least 1.5 metres of social distancing.

Meanwhile, the Amahoro National Stadium’s compound and running track will also be open for the mentioned sport activities.

The Sports Ministry says that the new measures - after a health assessment, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health – will again be reviewed after 15 days.

Who is not allowed to join the sports?

Individuals with red-flag symptoms for Covid-19 such as flu, cold, fever, cough, sneezing and headache are encouraged not to take part in the public exercises