Rwanda: Authorities amend COVID-19-related restrictions from August 1 /update 29

Event

Officials are amending COVID-19-related domestic measures from August 1. Authorities are lifting the lockdown previously implemented in Kigali and the districts of Burera, Gicumbi, Kamonyi, Musanze, Rubavu, Rwamagana, and Nyagatare. Travel between Kigali and other districts may resume except to and from areas where officials have implemented localized lockdowns; officials did not specify those affected areas. A nationwide 18:00-04:00 curfew remains in effect. In addition, officials will implement the following measures nationwide from August 1:

• All businesses must close at 17:00.

• Public transport may run at a 50-percent capacity.

• Social gatherings remain prohibited.

• Restaurants and cafes may only provide takeaway services; bars remain closed.

• Tourism activity can continue with health measures in place.

• Private and public offices will operate at reduced capacity, while private businesses may operate at 50-percent capacity.

• Meetings or conferences are allowed under strict health protocols; participants may be required to undergo testing.

• Places of worship are closed.

• Weddings should not exceed ten participants, while funerals are limited to 20 individuals.

• Outdoor sports and recreational activities are permitted but gyms remain closed.

The aforementioned measures are in effect until at least August 15.

All international passengers must complete the Passenger Locator Form (PLF) before departure. Passengers arriving and departing Kigali International Airport (KGL) must present a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours before departure; the result should be uploaded with the PLF. Arriving travelers will be tested on arrival and pay USD 60 for such expenses. Travelers will need to quarantine at a designated hotel for 24 hours while awaiting results. Persons arriving from India and Uganda must enter mandatory quarantine at a designated hotel for seven days at their own expense. Entry via land borders remains restricted.

Authorities typically review and update the nation's COVID-19 measures on a bi-monthly basis.

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.

Resources

Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (Twitter)
Ministry of Health
RwandAir
World Health Organization (WHO)
Passenger Locator Form