Night life in times of Covid-19

As the world continues to grapple with the effects of Covid-19, entertainment lovers are feeling the pinch.

Random visits to major entertainment venues and drinking joints show major reduction in the number of patrons.

Interviews have indicated that many fun-seekers are no longer willing to risk going to entertainment places despite the fact that government has not shut down the places.

While some entertainment places have opted to close temporarily, the majority are still operational.

McDonald Soko, proprietor of Club 20 Four 7 in Blantyre, said though they are still operating things are not the same as they have to observe the preventative measures as prescribed by government and the World Health Organisation (WHO).

“We are lucky that we have  enough open space and we easily adhere to Blantyre City Council guidelines, including observing social distance,” he said.

Renowned club and radio DJ Spyda Da Rider said the number of patrons have significantly gone down in various entertainment places.

“The live music and interactions make night life interesting. Now we have to be cautious all the time. It’s hard,” he said.

DJ Spyda further observed that drinking and entertainment joints that are operating are mainly the ones in townships.

Zomba City Council spokesperson Mercy Chaluma said the council has intensified awareness talks to owners of entertainment places in Zomba so that they adhere to precautionary measures against Covid-19.

“We are following the measures as prescribed by government. We have also given a sense of responsibility to owners of entertainment places since they stand to lose a lot if this virus spreads and there is a total lockdown,” she said.

Chaluma, however, emphasised that they are having challenges when it comes to enforcement which needs the help of the police.

Mzuzu City Council spokesperson McDonald Gondwe said entertainment places were still operating in Mzuzu while observing the preventative measures.

He, however, disclosed that the council is set to meet today to come up with additional resolutions.

Lilongwe City council mayor Juliana Kaduya told the media recently that the council wants to work with all stakeholders including entertainment places to be extra careful.

“We all need to adhere to preventative measures in the light of Covid-19 outbreak,” she said.

Random interviews with club goers show that many prefer staying at home in the light of Covid-19.

“These days I prefer to just buy beer and drink it here at home,” Chipiliro Mbewe, a Likhubula resident.