Covid-19: Will Morocco extend lockdown for the 3rd Time?

Moroccans of all walks of life are wondering whether the authorities will lift on June 10 the coronavirus lockdown rules as planned or extend the restrictions for another period as a precautionary measure although the pandemic has been brought under control.

According to several local press reports, the ongoing public health emergency, which was imposed starting March 20 and extended twice, will be rolled over again to avoid a second wave of infections during the summer holiday.

Quoting unnamed governmental sources, some news outlets say the “exceptional prevention measures” deployed against covid-19 will be extended for another two weeks, while others believe the current measures will remain in place until end of June and probably beyond depending on the evolution of the epidemiological situation.

According to online news website le360, Morocco’s third extension of the coronavirus lockdown will be announced on June 8 following the government’s Council. The gradual easing of the restrictions aims to support the country’s economic recovery and help businesses weather the storm caused by the global pandemic.

Covid-19 lockdown costs Morocco over $100 million daily, said lately economy minister Mohamed Benchaaboun at the Parliament. The Moroccan government is busy working to resume economic and industrial activities to save jobs, while taking all necessary safety measures, including mass testing, social distancing & mandatory face covering.

Trains and some factories have already resumed slowly their operations in the country but under strict health requirements set by the authorities. Coffee shops and restaurants also reopened but only for takeout and delivery.

In Morocco, the coronavirus has so far infected 8,177 people, killed 208, while 7,328 patients recovered.