Congo: Authorities extend COVID-19-related state of health emergency until Nov. 1 /update 32

Authorities in the Republic of the Congo extend COVID-19 state of health emergency until Nov. 1 and implement tighter domestic measures.

Event

Authorities have announced an extension of the country's state of health emergency measures until at least Nov. 1 as part of efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19. From Oct. 13, authorities have suspended wedding ceremonies for a 45-day period and announced that other public gatherings, including religious offices and funerals, must abide by strict health protocols. In addition, the following measures remain in effect.

Domestic Measures:

In Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire, a curfew is in effect 23:00-05:00 Monday to Friday and 20:00-05:00 on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. There is no curfew in the rest of the country.
Gatherings of more than three people in public and private spaces remain prohibited during the state of health emergency.
Marketplaces may open five days per week in Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire.
Restaurants and bars have reopened, but measures must be taken to accommodate customers in outside areas if possible. Nightclubs remain closed until further notice.
The wearing of facemasks is mandatory in public spaces

From Nov. 1, persons traveling by air, road, rail, or waterways between cities will have to present a vaccination certificate or a negative test. Health, education, law enforcement, and other public servant personnel as well as cab, bus and other public transport drivers will need a vaccination certificate from Nov. 1.

International Restrictions

International travelers must present a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours prior to travel and are encouraged to complete a travel form before their trip in order to receive a QR code.
Authorities also announced that incoming travelers will have to undertake a PCR test upon arrival at airports and ports at their own expense from Nov. 1.
Land and river borders remain restricted.

Additional amendments to restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 are possible in the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. 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. Reconfirm all travel arrangements and ensure that all pre-arrival tests are conducted.