Rwanda National Police (RNP) urges taxi-moto operators and the public to follow safety guidelines issued by the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) to prevent the spread of Cononavirus (COVID-19).

In the new safety regulations released Monday by Rwanda Utility Regulatory Authority (RURA), taxi-moto operators are required to remove protection screen on the passengers’ helmet to limit the possibility of spreading the virus.

Passengers are also advised to put on head-gears like caps or wrap their head with a cloth-like material to avoid any direct contact with the helmet, to further minimize any chance of contracting the pandemic.

Commenting on the new safety guidelines, RNP spokesperson, Commissioner of Police (CP) John Bosco Kabera, said: “Many people use moto-taxi as preferred mode of transport and it’s important that they use it safely. We urge the public to take these precautionary measures seriously. Fighting coronavirus is an individual and collective responsibility.”

“Rwanda National Police will continue to work with different government institutions to ensure that such guidelines meant to contain and prevent the spread of COVID-19, is enforced.”

Health experts say that the virus can remain on the helmet protective screen if they have a virus and coughs or sneezes, a reason as to why the new measures directs motorcyclists to remove the passengers’ helmet wind-screen.

The spokesperson further reminded members of the public to avoid “unnecessary movements” and follow other health and hygiene guidelines put in place, especially washing hands and avoiding handshakes.

“It is everyone’s responsibility to prevent the spread of the virus. Don’t wear a helmet if has a windscreen. It’s for your own safety; report any moto-taxi operator, who violates these directives meant to save lives, by calling us on our toll-free line 112.”