SOUTHERN PROVINCE

Major restaurants and bars in Muhanga town have been closed for lack of hygiene and sanitation facilities in an operation mounted by the Muhanga district health department.

The three-day operation that started on Wednesday 22 has been a major shake on the continuous pitiable scenario stinking toilets, filthy kitchens and uncompromising lack of hygiene among the hoteliers.

A team led by Jean D’Arc Bora, a hygiene inspector left six bars and two restaurants closed and reprimanded to sort out the mess as referred to in the official communication signed by the district mayor.

These include La Plataeu, Planette, One Love, Papyrus, New Safari, Petit Jardin, Centre Culturel des Sportif de Muhanga and Concord- the latter has been described as ‘old fashioned’ ruminant and needs rehabilitation, according to the inspection report.

The director of health, Joel Serucaca, said that most entrepreneurs have neglected hygiene and the situation is appalling and needs to be revamped by strict measures.

   "The inspection comes as a follow-up on the hygiene structures that have been asked of all restaurants and bars.

There has been a major decline in hygiene and it’s dangerous to a growing population of the town,” Serucaca saidHe added: "entrepreneurs have been asked to fulfill the requirements of proper sanitation, proper toilets, medical testing and provide uniforms for all the employees before any restaurant or bars is re-opened.

This needs to change attitude so that people’s health can be preserved.”

Most travelers and residents could not get refreshments in town, a move that saw small scale shop dealers and hawkers take advantage of the situation selling bread and soft drinks.While other entrepreneurs failed to speak to The New Times, Vedaste Nizeyimana, of the affected entrepreneurs said; "the move is welcome and we shall abide by the directives.

 I have already submitted my request to re-open and all employees will be medically tested immediately.”  Ends