Botswana: Authorities impose nationwide 1900-0400 curfew until Jan 3, 2021 /update 18

Event

Authorities have imposed a nationwide 1900-0400 curfew Dec. 24-Jan. 3, 2021 as part of efforts to slow the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). During curfew hours, anyone found outside their homes may be questioned or arrested by security personnel. Only those participating in the provision of critical services may leave their homes during curfew hours.

Authorities maintain several coronavirus disease (COVID-19) restrictions as of Dec. 24.

International Travel

Air travel has resumed at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) in Gaborone, Maun International Airport (MUB), Kasane International Airport (BBK), and G. Matante International Airport in Francistown (FRW).
Land border points at Kazungula Road, Kazungula Ferry, Ngoma, Ramokgwebana, Martins Drift, Ramatlabama, Tlokweng, Mamuno, Pioneer, and Mohembo have reopened; however, delays at crossings are likely due to enhanced screening measures.
Those entering Botswana must produce a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival.
If travelers are not a returning citizen or resident and do not produce a negative COVID-19 test, they will be denied entry into the country.
After arrival, travelers are required to contact the local health authority daily for a period of 14 days to self-monitor and report any COVID-19 symptoms.
Screening procedures are in force for those who enter Botswana. If symptoms of COVID-19 are presented, travelers are required to undergo a test and possible isolation of quarantine at the traveler's expense.
Returning citizens or residents will have to undergo the same procedures at their costs.

Domestic Travel Restrictions

The majority of banks, shopping centers, and other previously considered nonessential businesses continue to operate as long as social distancing measures and wearing protective facemasks are employed.
Precautionary travel measures, such as safe social distancing between passengers, are in place for domestic flights. Health screenings before boarding flights are mandatory.
Authorities have divided Botswana into COVID-19 zones to manage travel movements. Travelers who apply for an interzonal travel permit may require a COVID-19 test if traveling to or from a high-risk zone.
Those traveling to and from high-risk COVID-19 zones may be required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test.

A state of public emergency is in effect until at least March 2021 in continued efforts to curb the spread of the virus.

An increased security presence is likely throughout the territory of Botswana. Those who do not comply with the regulations will be subject to fines or a prison sentence, or both. The government is likely to implement or change restrictions with little to no warning.

Context

COVID-19 is a viral respiratory disease caused by infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus (previously known as 2019-nCoV). Symptoms occur 1-14 days following exposure (average of 3-7 days). These symptoms include fever, fatigue, cough, difficulty breathing, sometimes worsening to pneumonia and kidney failure - especially in those with underlying medical conditions. On March 11, the WHO declared the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for possible ground shipping and travel delays.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.