Rwanda: Authorities extend COVID-19 domestic restrictions in Kigali and several districts as of July 26 /update 28

Event

Authorities in Rwanda have extended orders placing certain parts of the country on lockdown for an additional five days through July 31. The measure will be in force in the city of Kigali and the districts of Burera, Gicumbi, Kamonyi, Musanze, Nyagatare, Rubavu, Rwamagana, and Rutsiro. The following mandates will be in effect for the duration of the lockdown:

• Residents must remain inside their homes, except when procuring or providing essential goods and services, such as healthcare, banking, food shopping, etc.

• Outdoor sports and recreational activities are prohibited.

• Public transport is prohibited, except for personnel carrying out essential services; motorcycles are only allowed to offer delivery services.

• Public and private offices will remain closed except for those providing essential services.

• Businesses will be closed, except those selling food, medicine, fuel, and other approved essential items. Businesses allowed to operate are restricted to 30 percent capacity and must close by 17:00.

• All schools will remain closed.

Elsewhere across Rwanda, several other restrictions aimed at containing COVID-19 remain in place. A nightly 18:00-04:00 curfew is in effect nationwide. Movement between districts is prohibited except for essential services or under exceptional circumstances. Vehicles transporting goods may continue to operate provided they have no more than two people on board.

In-person meetings may not exceed 30 percent of the venue's capacity, and strict health protocols must be in place. All social gatherings in private or public settings, including weddings, are suspended. Religious services may not exceed 30 percent of the capacity of the house of worship. Funerals may not exceed 15 attendees.

Public offices and private businesses may operate with essential staff at no more than 15 and 50 percent capacity, respectively, while other employees continue working from home on a rotational basis. Cafes and restaurants may operate at 30 percent capacity and must close by 17:00. Bars are closed. Tourism activity can continue with health measures in place.

Concerning international travel, 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. Travelers will need to quarantine at a designated hotel for 24 hours while waiting for the result. 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