Lesotho: Authorities implement amended COVID-19 restrictions Feb. 3 /update 14

Officials in Lesotho implement amended COVID-19 restrictions Feb. 3. Limited international travel permitted.

Event

Authorities in Lesotho have eased several restrictions as of Feb 3 due to the decreasing number of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases. Regulations have been amended from the highest level, red, to orange.

International Travel:

Air travel is restricted and land border movement limited. Exceptions are made for the transportation of essential goods, to attend the funeral of immediate family members, for diplomats, students, permanent residents, and citizens, and for medical purposes. Note that international travel is dependent on South Africa's COVID-19-related regulations.
Daily commuting workers between Lesotho and South Africa are not permitted until further notice.
Only those who present a negative COVID-19 test taken no longer than 72 hours prior to arrival will be permitted entry.
Citizens and permanent residents who test positive for COVID-19 will be required to quarantine until test results return positive.

Domestic Restrictions:

A daily nationwide curfew between 2100-0500 is in effect.
All public recreational areas remain restricted until further notice.
All political gatherings, including protests, remain prohibited.
Nonessential businesses, including restaurants, are permitted to operate between 0800-1600, following social distancing and sanitization protocols.
Liquor stores are allowed to operate between Monday-Thursday, between 1000-1600.
All schools and higher learning institutions are closed, apart from those who have permission to hold exams.
Manufacturing industries are permitted to operate at 50-percent capacity on any given shift.
Street vendors are allowed to operate while observing COVID-19 protocols.
Public transport is allowed to continue; however, with a limited number of passengers.
The wearing of protective facemasks is compulsory in public spaces.

Security forces and members of the army will be deployed to enforce lockdown measures. Regulations are subject to change at short notice.

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.