Tens of thousands of Muslims on Friday gathered for congregational prayers after government reopens places of worship. 

Prayers followed the government new strict guidelines of wearing masks, each worshipper using their own prayer mat and sermons limited to 15 minutes.

The worshippers welcomed the reopening of places of worship especially mosques as they say their lives revolve around their religious obligations. 

They said they have missed the Friday congregational prayers which is compulsory on every Muslim. 

The reopening comes a day before Muslims around the World observe “Yamul Ashura” on Saturday August 29.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba