Zimbabwe: Authorities announce the extension of COVID-19 lockdown restrictions for another two weeks as of Feb. 16; some measures eased /update 12

Zimbabwean authorities extend COVID-19 lockdown measures for another two weeks as of Feb. 16. Several amended restrictions are in place.

Event

Authorities in Zimbabwe have announced an extension of lockdown restrictions for another two weeks through March 1 but have eased some measures aimed at curbing the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

International Travel

Air travel has resumed.
Land borders are closed except for cargo transport and other authorized persons, including tourists.
Travelers must present a negative COVID-19 test obtained within 48 hours before arrival. Persons without a test result or displaying COVID-19 symptoms may be denied entry.
All persons arriving will be required to quarantine for 14 days. Those who arrive with a legitimate negative COVID-19 test will be permitted to self-isolate at their designated address. If travelers present symptoms upon arrival, regardless of a negative test, they will be detained until COVID-19 test results are known. If negative, they will be released to self-isolated at their designated address. Those who test positive for COVID-19 upon arrival will be required to quarantine at a government-appointed facility for 14 days.
Persons departing the country must present a negative COVID-19 test obtained within 48 hours of departure.

Domestic Measures

The daily nationwide curfew has been shortened to 2000-0500; previously, it was 1800-0600.
Essential services are only permitted to operate 0800-1700.
Persons must stay at home and may only leave to acquire essential goods or for medical reasons.
All nonessential businesses, with some limited exceptions, must close for the duration of enhanced restrictions. Essential services, such as grocery stores, hospitals, and pharmacies, can operate 0800-1500.
All intercity and interprovincial travel is banned for the duration of the extension.
Funeral attendance is limited to 30 people.
All other gatherings apart from funerals are banned.
All schools remain closed.
Government offices are open; however, they continue to work at a 25-percent capacity.
Companies seeking work resumption are to test all employees for COVID-19 and must continue to do so regularly.
Markets and other informal activities are permitted to resume once they meet the World Health Organization (WHO).
Facemasks remain mandatory in public.

All 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. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers.