The government is making plans to ease the lockdown and other restrictions to stem the spread of coronavirus. When the lockdown is eased, and people are allowed to go to work, Dr Diana Atwiine, the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Health has announced plans to make face masks compulsory to combat the spread of coronavirus.

The lockdown ends on May 5. President Museveni will address the nation before then to offer his guidance on a way forward, but top on the list of measures that will come into force is wearing of masks.

Atwiine says masks are a firewall in the fight. Local manufacturers have been encouraged to wear masks

Different countries have issued the same guidelines.

Since the outbreak began, the World Health Organization (WHO) has consistently said only the ill and those caring for the ill need to wear masks.

Research suggests they are not as effective as frequent hand washing with soap and water, and can give users false confidence.

But a number of countries are starting to make masks compulsory on public transport and in shops,

Others have begun handing out masks to commuters.