Entebbe, 10 February 2021: The Regional service Centre Entebbe is preparing to return another 20 to 30% of their staff to the offices in February 2021 almost 11 months after they were sent to work from home due to the global COVID19 pandemic.

The RSCE returned the first 20% in October 2020 after the UN Designated Official for Uganda, Ms. Rosa Malango, called on all UN entities to commence a gradual return to their offices. 

The Director a.i. RSCE, Mr. Paulin Djomo, announced this move in its first townhall of the year held in February 2021 and he mentioned that the rest of the staff would also return to the premises on 1 March on a rotational basis in line with the covid19 SOPs and recommendations.

Mr. Djomo attributed the move to an increase request from staff member who are faced with multiple challenges working from home and requesting to return to the office. Office environment is different from home environment and telecommuting is appreciated differently by the personnel. Challenges faced by some staff is impacting the ability of the Center to efficiently served its clients.

In October the RSCE had already put into place measures for strict adherence to the set guidelines on COVID19 prevention. Space markers were placed on the ground indicating a safe distance to keep while walking on the premises and sanitation points installed at all entrances and in various areas within the RSCE. Posters were also flighted in all areas visited by staff and visitors to the premises and a safe return to the office video was circulated to all staff (See link: MS Stream.)

The full return to the office will be based on a rotational system with core staff permanently working from the office based on the criticality of their functions and a rotation system implemented to ensure business continuity.

Desks have been rearranged to cater for the 2-meter distance between staff. In units were staff are in regular contacts with clients, plexiglass have been installed for additional protection.

The cleaning of the offices has been beefed up with the cleaning staff required to clean and sanitize frequently visited spaces frequently. Staff are encouraged to wipe down and sanitize their workstations regularly.

The Place 2B and Coffee Nest Café will remain operational but will continue to supply food on a take- away and delivery basis to avoid gatherings at the restaurants.

The COVID19 Pandemic SOPs are still valid and staff are advised to report any symptoms to the medical unit and remain home.  Handwashing and sanitization are still priority and masks are mandatory.