Madagascar: Officials extend COVID-19-related state of emergency for 15 days and amend restrictions /update 29

Madagascar extends COVID-19 state of emergency for 15 days from June 28; domestic restrictions eased.

Event

Prime Minister Christian Ntsay has announced the extension of the sanitary state of emergency to combat COVID-19 for 15 days through at least July 13. Amendments to domestic restrictions have also been announced, including increasing the number of people allowed to gather, from 200 to 400. In addition, the nightly 23:00-04:00 curfew has been eased to 00:00-04:00. The wearing of protective facemasks remains mandatory in public spaces.

Routine international air travel to Madagascar remains banned until further notice. Sea borders are closed. Exceptions will be made for the transport of cargo. Special and repatriation services may be conducted with authorities' approval; however, travelers who enter the country will need to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival. All passengers entering the country are subject to a COVID-19 test and a quarantine period of up to five days until a negative test result has been received. Travelers who test positive may face state-mandated treatment.

Authorities could change COVID-19 restrictions with little-to-no warning.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. 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.