Rwanda: Authorities update select COVID-19 restrictions from May 6 through May 31 /update 21

Event

Officials have amended domestic measures and entry and exit restrictions from May 6, through May 31, as part of the government's efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19.

According to the new announcement, the previously imposed nationwide 21:00-04:00 curfew will now run from 22:00 to 04:00 except in Southern Province districts of Ruhango, Nyanza, Huye, Gisagara, Nyaruguru, and Nyamagabe. Curfew hours in these districts will remain 19:00-04:00. Authorities also stated that movement between Kigali and other provinces and between the country's districts may continue.

In addition, officials are also implementing the following measures:

• All bars remain closed; however, restaurants and cafes are allowed to operate until 21:00 at no more than 50-percent capacity.

• Sporting centers shall be allowed to resume gradually while pools and spas remain closed except for hotels.

• Public transport will maintain operations at a maximum of 75-percent capacity.

• Physical meetings may resume at a maximum of 30-percent venue capacity; COVID-19 testing is required for meetings of more than 20 persons.

• Public offices will remain open at a maximum of 30-percent capacity.

• Private business will continue with essential staff at no more than a 50-percent capacity; markets and malls will remain open for essential vendors.

• Places of worship will continue to operate with a maximum of 50-percent occupancy.

• Tourism activity will continue in strict adherence with COVID-19 health guidelines.

International travel
As of May 6, international passengers arriving and departing Kigali International Airport (KGL) must present a negative result from a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken within 72 hours prior to departure. Arriving travelers may be forced to take a PCR test and quarantine at a designated hotel for 24 hours while waiting for the result. Authorities also announced that all passengers arriving from India will be subject to a 7-day quarantine at a designated hotel at their expense.

Land borders remained closed to passenger traffic except for returning Rwandan citizens and legal residents. However, travel restrictions may be subject to the guidelines of neighboring states. All returnees are subjected to mandatory quarantine in accordance with existing health guidelines at their own cost.

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)