The number of COVID-19 infections and related deaths in Egypt more than tripled in the past month while extreme poverty grips the nation. As of July 2, Egypt recorded nearly 70,000 cases and 3,034 deaths. But Egyptian leaders say because of the dire economic situation, they are slowly lifting restrictions on entertainment, education, worship and eating out. VOA’s Heather Murdock describes the pictures taken by Hamada Elrasam.
Egypt Slowly Reopens as Coronavirus Death Toll Climbs
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The Egyptian government is lifting many restrictions, including ending the nighttime curfew. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)
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After 100 days of closure, the Egyptian Museum in Cairo re-opens to visitors, July 1, 2020. Local news reports an average of $1 billion tourism revenue has been lost in three months of lockdown. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)
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Cinemas are now allowed to re-open at 25 percent capacity, but many do not have new films to screen. And with massive pandemic-related unemployment, few people can afford the tickets. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)
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Wedding halls are still closed, but couples are now coming out at night to celebrate in the streets in Cairo, June 28, 2020. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)
