Eswatini: Authorities partially relax domestic COVID-19 restrictions nationwide as of Sept. 17 /update 18

Authorities in Eswatini partially relax domestic COVID-19 measures as of Sept. 17; international travel restrictions ongoing

Event

Authorities announced the relaxation of domestic measures beginning Sept. 17, as the country moves to Adjusted Risk Level 2. The changes notably include the modification of the nationwide curfew and expanded business hours. The following restrictions are in place:

Domestic Measures

The nationwide curfew is modified to 21:00-04:00 curfew until further notice.
Businesses may operate between 06:00-19:00. Restaurants may operate until 20:00.
The restriction of outdoor entertainment and activities with no more than 200 people will likely remain in place.
Religious services are permitted two times a week, though strict health protocols must be respected. 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. Memorial services remain prohibited.
All other social gatherings will likely remain prohibited until further notice.
Facemasks remain mandatory on public transport and in many additional public spaces. Authorities continue to advise working from home where possible.
Public transport will likely continue to operate at up to 100 percent capacity with restrictions on standing passengers.

International Travel

Travel to the country remains restricted 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 from the time of departure. 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.