Traders in Uganda’s capital, Kampala, have been denied access to their businesses as security forces continue to implement tough health measures to curb the spread of coronavirus.

On 18 June President Yoweri Museveni ordered a 42-day lockdown that restricted movement and closed businesses.

Many people criticised the move, saying that it would deny millions of people their right to earn a living.

Local newspaper Daily Monitor reports that several traders tried unsuccessfully to negotiate with the security forces manning Park View Shopping Centre to allow them in.

“Please, let me access my boutique. I want to pick some clothes and sell them from elsewhere. My children are starving at home because I am not working. Let me in,” the paper quoted a woman as saying.

President Museveni said imposing tough measures was necessary to deal with a surge of infections sparked by the Delta virus which has led to an increase in hospitalisation and death.

The East African country has reported more than 40,000 cases and 334 deaths.