26 Aug 2021

Residents of Komana village in the Ngamiland district have been commended for their commitment in the fight against COVID-19. 

Village Kgosi, Omphile Bogoma said in an interview that the coronavirus situation in the village was under control and attributed that to villagers’ cooperation and willingness to work together to contain the virus.

He said since the beginning of the year, only six cases were recorded in the village.  He praised residents for acting swiftly to ensure the virus did not spread. 

Kgosi Bogoma also acknowledged the village leadership for taking the lead in sensitising the community about the disease and encouraging them to observe health protocols. 

He said the leadership ensured compliance to the stipulated number in gatherings such as funerals and also called on the community to reduce unnecessary movements and wear masks all the time.

He stated that like any other unexpected outbreak, the pandemic caused fear, anxiety and panic among the public in general, but appreciated that many responded positively to join forces with the government to combat the spread.

“I am pleased by the villagers’ response towards the pandemic. They took the message seriously and ensured compliance even though there were a few who still violated regulations,” he added.

Kgosi Bogoma expressed concern about some people who continued to violate curfew regulations and COVID-19 protocols, citing school children roamed the village without a mask.

He said the government, took a bold decision to close schools as part of containment measures, but it was disturbing as learners were spotted in groups at night roaming the village and urged parents to reprimand their children.

In addition, he said there were some people who continued to undermine government efforts by selling traditional beer, despite the alcohol ban. 

Kgosi Bogoma encouraged the community not to lose hope as the pandemic would pass and life would go back to ‘normal’. 

He also appreciated that COVID-19 vaccination campaign was progressing well, with many villagers having already taken their full jabs. He noted public servants, including teachers, were currently taking their jab and encouraged those who had not yet taken theirs to be patient. ENDS