Botswana: Authorities ease COVID-19-related domestic restrictions Sept. 6 /update 30

Botswana eases COVID-19-related domestic restrictions Sept. 6. Nationwide curfew in effect.

Event

The government has eased COVID-19-related domestic measures due to a decreased infection rate Sept. 6. The related State of Public Emergency remains in effect until Sept. 30.

Domestic Restrictions

The nationwide curfew is shortened to run 22:00-04:00 as opposed to 20:00-04:00. During curfew hours, only individuals performing essential services and possessing a permit are allowed to be outside their homes.
Inter-zonal movement is permitted for essential travel only.
Public gatherings can resume with strict health protocols in place; religious services are limited to 50 individuals.
The ban on the sale of alcohol is lifted.

International restrictions
International flights are operating at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) in Gaborone, Maun International Airport (MUB) in Maun, Kasane International Airport (BBK) in Chobe District, and P. G. Matante International Airport (FRW) in Francistown. Several land border posts are also operating, including the border crossings with South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Persons entering Botswana must produce a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival. Moreover, additional screening procedures and testing are in force at the nation's entry points. Travelers exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms could face isolation or quarantine at their own expense. Returning Botswanan citizens and legal residents who do not possess a negative COVID-19 test certificate will be tested at the border and face up to 14 days of quarantine at a government facility. Travelers permitted to enter the country must contact the local health authority daily for a period of 14 days to self-monitor and report any COVID-19 symptoms.

Travelers entering Botswana from high-risk countries may be required to quarantine at a designated facility and be tested on the seventh day before determining their release.

All travelers leaving the country must produce a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before their departure.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks. Violations of COVID-19 regulations are punishable by fines and/or incarceration.

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. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for possible travel delays.