Molenbeek Prepares for Ramadan Under COVID-19 Restrictions

"We are also counting on floor markings: lines drawn 1.5 meters apart in front of all food stores to respect the safety distance," says Mayor Catherine Moureaux (PS). She specifies that other businesses - those that allow money to be sent to families or abroad - are seen as sensitive and that the municipality pays particular attention to them.

Similarly, the municipality attaches importance to its communication with residents and merchants, to prevent Molenbekers from rushing to the stores at the same time. "We absolutely have to avoid overloading the businesses at the end of the day. Otherwise, we will have a hard time ensuring the safety of everyone," insists Catherine Moureaux. To ensure that the message is heard, the municipality is distributing letters in mailboxes to remind citizens of the safety and good conduct rules.

"I have had multiple contacts with the religious authorities. I asked for their support and suggestions, particularly regarding the organization of solidarity with the weakest," the mayor also confides, praising her constituents who have complied with the confinement measures. "The vast majority of Molenbekers strictly respect the measures, while it is much more difficult in our municipality, where the buildings are more cramped and where large families live," she suggests.