Zimbabwe: Authorities ease COVID-19 restrictions from March 1 /update 13

Zimbabwean authorities ease COVID-19 lockdown measures from March 1. Several amended restrictions are in place.

Event

Authorities in Zimbabwe have announced the easing of lockdown restrictions from March 1 following a reported decline in the number of COVID-19 cases in the country.

Domestic Measures
The daily nationwide curfew has been shortened from 2000-0500 to 2200-0530. All businesses are allowed to resume activity; however, all schools remain closed until further notice. All intercity and interprovincial travel, initially banned, can resume. Bars, gyms, and clubs remain closed; restaurants can offer takeaway services. Facemasks remain mandatory in public.

International Travel
Air travel is ongoing. However, land borders are closed, except for cargo transport and other authorized persons. Travelers must present a negative COVID-19 test obtained within 48 hours before arrival. Persons without a test result or displaying COVID-19 symptoms may be denied entry. All persons arriving will be required to quarantine for 14 days. Those who arrive with a legitimate negative COVID-19 test will be permitted to self-isolate at their designated address. If travelers present symptoms upon arrival, regardless of a negative test, they will be detained until COVID-19 test results are known. If negative, they will be released to self-isolated at their designated address. Those who test positive for COVID-19 upon arrival will be required to quarantine at a government-appointed facility for 14 days. Persons departing the country must present a negative COVID-19 test obtained within 48 hours of departure.

All 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. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers.