Togo: Authorities extend COVID-19-related state of health emergency for six months from March 16 /update 14

Togo extends COVID-19 state of health emergency from March 16 through September; related measures remain in place.

Event

Officials in Togo have extended the country's COVID-19-related state of health emergency for six months from March 16. The extended measure will be in place through at least mid-September 2021. Following the extension, nationwide domestic measures, including the mandatory use of facemasks in public areas for persons five years and older, have been maintained. Authorities have also banned religious pilgrimages until further notice.

International Travel
Land borders remain closed. The transport of cargo and humanitarian traffic is likely unaffected. International flights have resumed, and all persons arriving in the country must complete an online immigration and health form. Arriving passengers must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than seven days before boarding. Authorities require passengers to take another test on arrival at Lome-Tokoin International Airport (Gnassingbe Eyadema International Airport, LFW). Travelers are likely to spend 24-48 hours under self-quarantine at a hotel or residence while awaiting test results. Persons who test positive for COVID-19 are required to enter a minimum 14-day quarantine in Lome at their own expense.

Passengers in transit who remain in LFW's international zone are exempt from a test on arrival. Travelers must also download and install the contact-tracing "Togo Safe" mobile application prior to arrival. This must remain active for the duration of their stay or for at least 30 days after arrival. Failure to download the application could result in a 14-day quarantine. Departing travels from Lome must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than three days before leaving.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity. Health and sanitary checkpoints are also possible on major routes.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures due to the continued spread of the disease. 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. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Reconfirm all health and travel requirements well before your intended departure date from Togo.