The Gambia government on Thursday placed new rules on worship places as it lifts closures put in place to stop the spread of coronavirus.

Mosques and Churches are now required to open 15 minutes before congregational prayers and closed immediately after prayers, a statement from the government said.

“A person in charge of a place of worship shall ensure the availability of hand cleansing and hygiene materials at the entrance of the premises to be used by all worshippers. 

“Each worshipper shall wear a facemask covering the mouth and nose; all taps and toilets in the premises of worship centres shall remain closed to the public,” said the statement.

“In the cases of mosques, all worshippers shall come with their own prayer mats and worshippers shall keep a distance of at least one (1) metre from each other.”

“By this Regulation, all churches or mosques shall be closed immediately after every congregational prayer and a Special Committee shall be established by each worship centre in The Gambia for the observance of these new public health and safety guidelines.”

Reporting by Adama Makasuba