Djibouti, though a small country, has had, proportionately, the highest number of coronavirus cases on the African continent but that is at least partly due to an aggressive programme to test and trace Covid-19 contacts. Between 18th March and 23rd May, there have been 2,270 confirmed cases with 10 deaths. Fortunately, symptoms seem to be mild for most people.
The pandemic has come in two waves that may be related to a breakdown in social distancing observance but the dip between the waves coincided with heavy rains that lashed all East Africa – that may have ‘helped’ by reducing social interaction. In one night Djibouti town received 80 mm of rainfall in few hours (half of the annual average). This triggered widespread flash floods, affecting many and causing eight fatalities. Hospital Bouffard, where COVID-19 testing facilities are located, was affected, creating disruptions in the operations. Initial estimates indicate that some 18,000 households (approximately 110,000 persons) were affected. At least eight people, including three children and two women lost their lives as their hut was washed away by the floodwater.
On 17th May after 8 weeks lockdown life restarted. Shops are now open and buses are running. People have to wear masks and no more than 10 should meet in one place. It is different after 6pm as all businesses have to close. Usually in Ramadan everyone would be out at night to do their Eid shopping but now everyone is out in the morning. The streets are really crowded. EELC, however, will not reopen, because social distancing there is not possible.
Business people seem to be getting help from the government so it is mainly the day labourers who are suffering though the government was also giving out food to the needy. The team have been able to help some, but not as many as expected came to request help.
It is hot – high 30s now and varying from dry in the mornings to very humid in the afternoon/evenings. There are some power cuts.
Summer is coming! It becomes unbearably hot June – September. All schools and universities close down and if businesses can, they do too. Paradoxically, that may help to encourage social distancing so reducing the incidence of Covid-19.
Those who are able, move to a cooler climate but this year travel is limited. Flights are expensive and bookings are only available at 2-3 days notice.
So we pray:
God of mercy and compassion,
We thank you from the depths of our hearts for your mercy and compassion to the people of Djibouti. We grieve over each life lost but are thankful that most people who have Covid-19 are only mildly affected.
We acknowledge your goodness and kindness, Lord God.
We continue to seek your wisdom and insight for national and local community leaders that their guidance and decisions will be for the benefit of all Djibouti residents.
All-knowing, all-seeing God we come to you in our frailty and need.
We pray for those who cannot work and especially for the destitute that food will become available to them.
We pray for those who are depressed and are losing hope that they will find joy and purpose in your presence and inspiration.
Soften our hearts we pray. Strengthen our faith. Widen our hearts. Give fresh life to us.
May your Name be honoured and glorified in our lives, God of our Past, our Present and of Eternity.
Kerith Trust 