Ethiopia: COVID-19-related restrictions remain largely unchanged as of March 1 by comparison with those in force during early February /update 9

Ethiopia continuing existing COVID-19-related measures as of March.1; domestic and international flights operating.

Event

As of March 1, restrictions and other measures implemented in Ethiopia to limit the spread of COVID-19 remain largely unchanged compared with those in effect in early February.

International ports of entry, including Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) and land border crossings, are open but operating at reduced levels. Heightened screenings are in effect. At all international entry points, travelers over the age of 10 years must produce a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 120 hours prior to arrival. Arrivals must then complete seven days of mandatory self-quarantine. Passengers with transit layovers of more than 24 hours will be taken to a designated transit hotel where they must remain pending their onward travel. Diplomats are not required to provide evidence of negative testing; however, they are expected to observe up to 14 days of self-isolation.

Domestically, Oromia, Amhara, Harari, and the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples Region (SNNPR) have imposed movement restrictions, though specific details of these directives are unclear. Additional security and travel restrictions are almost certain in Tigray Region due to ongoing hostilities between the regional and the federal governments. Limits on gatherings at places of worship, bars, sporting events, meetings and conferences, funerals, and cinemas remain in place; however, such establishments can continue to operate with certain health precautions in place.

The federal government and regional governments could announce additional restrictions in the coming weeks, depending on disease activity; further measures may be implemented on 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. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers.