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17 Aug 2021 | 03:52 PM UTC

Eswatini: Authorities maintain tightened COVID-19 restrictions nationwide as of Aug. 17 /update 17

Authorities in Eswatini maintaining domestic COVID-19 measures as of Aug. 17; international travel restrictions ongoing

Warning

Event

Authorities are maintaining COVID-19-related restrictions in place since at least mid-July to limit the spread of the virus. As of Aug. 17, the following restrictions remain in place:

Domestic Measures

  • An 18:00-05:00 curfew remains in place due to recent bouts of civil unrest until further notice.

  • Public transport is operating at up to 100 percent capacity; however, passengers are not permitted to stand.

  • Facemasks are mandatory on public transport and in many additional public spaces. Authorities continue to advise working from home where possible.

  • Religious and community gatherings, including weddings, are permitted with no more than 100 people outdoors and 50 people indoors, and must not be longer than two and a half hours.

  • Outdoor entertainment and activities with no more than 200 people are permitted.

  • All other social gatherings remain prohibited until further notice.

International Travel

  • Travel to the country is permitted for medical reasons, education, work, and business purposes.

  • Travelers entering Eswatini will be required to provide a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival in the country. All travelers will be screened upon arrival. Those arriving without a negative COVID-19 test result or showing symptoms of the virus will be required to take a test at their own cost.

  • Travelers may be subject to mandatory quarantine for up to 14 days; this is likely if a traveler tests positive.

  • Travelers must present a negative COVID-19 test result taken no more than 72 hours prior to departure when exiting the country. Individuals showing symptoms of COVID-19 will not be permitted to leave the country and will need to quarantine for up to 14 days.

  • Measures are also in place for essential travelers such as daily commuters.

Authorities could reintroduce, ease, or otherwise amend restrictions at any time based upon disease activity. Additional restrictions are possible in response to security-related developments.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Reconfirm quarantine requirements before travel. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm business appointments, deliveries, and travel arrangements. 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

World Health Organisation (WHO)

Ministry of Health Swaziland (eSwatini)