Nightclubs could open without the dance floor
Nightclubs are synonymous with dancing the night away, but when night life bursts into life
dance spots, no more.
Night spots have been closed since March last year in
But with President Mokgweetsi Masisi indicating earlier this month that there will be no extension of the State of Emergency (SoE), night crawlers have been thrown a lifeline. concerns the re-opening could lead to a spike in infections, while the industry players have welcomed the relief, as most have been out of operation for 18 months.
the economy opens up, but the alcohol industry does not want to throw caution to the wind.
Botswana Beverages Association (BOBA) president, Peter Noke told Mmegi, the body has made several recommendations to Minister Kgafela on the safe re-opening of night clubs.
avoid close interactions. into a seating area.
one metre apart.
What it means is that there will be no dancing. If one wants to dance, they will have to do so while seated,” he said. BOBA, Botswana Alcohol Industry, Kgalagadi Breweries Limited, and Business Botswana met Kgafela last week Friday.
carry only 50% of their capacity, while consumption of alcohol in the premises’ parking lots will not be allowed.
sponsibility to ensure compliance with the rules. Face mask must be sold at the premises. No mask, no entry. Any transgression will see trading licence revoked,” Noke said.
owners to re-stock and meet rental obligations.
concerns.
He will engage with the COVID-19 Task Force and the Ministry of Health and Wellness.”
be counter-productive, argues Botswana Entertainment Promoters Association (BEPA) president, Gilbert Seagile.
“Clubs are not restaurants. How do you open a church ing station which does not sell fuel,” Seagile said.