Rwanda: Authorities amend domestic COVID-19-related restrictions through at least Sept. 22 /update 31

Event

The Rwandan government has issued orders amending certain domestic COVID-19-related restrictions through at least Sept. 22. Effective Sept. 2, the nationwide curfew will be shortened to 21:00-04:00; all businesses must close at 20:00. In Kigali, the curfew applies 22:00-04:00 and businesses must close at 21:00. In the districts recording the highest COVID-19 infection rates (Burera, Gicumbi, Kirehe, Ngoma, Nyagatare, Nyamasheke, Nyaruguru, and Rwamagana), the curfew is in effect 20:00-04:00 while businesses must close at 19:00.

In addition, the following measures apply nationwide:

• Public transport will operate at 75 percent capacity.

• Restaurants and cafes may open at a reduced occupancy limit; bars remain closed.

• 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.

• Authorities continue to allow tourism activity subject to health-related protocols.

• Gyms and fitness centers are allowed to reopen.

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; individuals must upload the result 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; permitted land arrivals are subject to similar entry requirements.

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