Namibia: Authorities relax select domestic COVID-19 measures through at least Sept. 14 /update 24

Event

The Namibian government has issued orders to relax select domestic COVID-19 restrictions through at least Sept. 14.

Domestic Restrictions
Effective Aug. 14, limits on public gatherings are increased from 50 to 100 people. Educational facilities may reopen at full capacity while following strict health measures. Select businesses may resume operations at 50-percent capacity with a maximum of 100 people, including gyms, nightclubs, and casinos. Contact sports activities may resume without spectators. Public transport vehicles may operate at 50-percent capacity. The nationwide 22:00-04:00 curfew remains in place and businesses must still close at 19:00.

International Travel
Entry restrictions are likely to remain unchanged. Under the current guidance:

• A COVID-19 PCR test obtained within 72 hours of arrival in Namibia is required

• International passenger flights are operating out of Windhoek's Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) and Walvis Bay International Airport (WVB).

• Most land borders are closed to tourists. The Katima Mulilo, Ariamsvlei, and Noordoewer border posts and Walvis Bay Harbor are exceptions.

• All travelers coming from pre-determined hotspots, such as India, must take a second PCR test after seven days in the country.

• Returning citizens and permanent residents that have a certified de-isolation (successful quarantine) from the government of the country of departure will not be subject to quarantine.

• Travelers who arrived without a test result or with a result outside the outlined period will be subject to a seven-day quarantine and a test at personal expense. Travelers will remain in quarantine until test results return negative.

Officials could amend restrictions at short notice. Authorities will issue fines to persons not complying with the COVID-19-related measures.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Confirm with local authorities or diplomatic missions on the status of quarantine and or other restrictive measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Plan for possible ground shipping and travel delays; seek alternative routes and shipping methods for time-sensitive cargo.

Resources

World Health Organisation (WHO)
Ministry of Health and Social Services