Lesotho: Officials relax some domestic COVID-19 restrictions as of Feb. 7 /update 27

Event

Authorities are relaxing some domestic COVID-19 regulations as of Feb. 7. A nationwide overnight curfew is no longer in effect. Night clubs and casinos can operate as normal as long as all patrons are vaccinated and social distancing measures are in place. Restaurants and fast food locations can resume normal operations under COVID-19 protocol, and proof of vaccination is necessary for entry. Political rallies and large gatherings may resume as long as participants wear facemasks and observe physical distancing. Regulations remain at level Blue, the second-highest level of the country's color-coded five-tier ranking system.

Domestic Restrictions:

• Public transport is ongoing with passenger limits and some health measures.

• Sports spectators must be vaccinated to attend all activities.

• Social and family gatherings are permitted of up to 500 people outdoors and up to 50 percent venue capacity indoors.

• Gyms may open at up to 50 percent capacity, under the condition that there is indoor ventilation.

• Casinos may operate at 50 percent capacity with COVID-19 protocols in place.

• Public parks and recreational centers remain closed.

• The wearing of protective facemasks is compulsory in public spaces.

International Travel:

• Cross-border travel is permitted for certain travelers, including business people, migrant workers, pensioners, students, and diplomats. The movement of essential goods and services is also allowed. Travel for tourism and leisure is restricted.

• Air travel to Moshoeshoe I International Airport (MSU) and land border movement is permitted. International travel is dependent on South Africa's COVID-19-related regulations.

• Individuals must present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours before arrival to enter the country.

• Travelers reportedly require a digitalized African Union Trusted Travel certificate for entry and exit.

Security forces will remain deployed to enforce measures. Regulations are subject to change at short notice.

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.

Resources

National COVID-19 Secretariat (Twitter)
World Health Organization (WHO)
African Union Trusted Travel certificates