Rwanda: Authorities ease certain domestic COVID-19-related restrictions through at least Sept. 1 /update 30

Event

The Rwandan government has issued orders easing certain domestic COVID-19-related restrictions through at least Sept. 1. Effective Aug. 12, the nationwide curfew will be shortened to run between the hours of 20:00-04:00 nightly as opposed to 18:00-04:00 as had previously been the case. Moreover, businesses may now remain open an additional two hours daily, closing at 19:00 rather than 17:00. Restaurants and cafes are no longer restricted to carryout services only and may now open to on-premises dining, albeit at a reduced occupancy limit; bars remain closed. The operating capacity for public transport has been increased to 75 percent versus the 50 percent cap that was previously in place. Gyms and fitness centers are allowed to reopen.

Authorities continue to allow tourism activity subject to health-related protocols. Public offices and private businesses remain restricted to operating at 50 percent capacity. Meetings, conferences, and other gatherings, including weddings and funerals, are permitted under strict health guidelines; participants may be required to undergo testing.

International Travel Restrictions
Restrictions on international travel remain largely unchanged. 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