Gabon: Authorities ban flights from some African countries Dec. 9, update COVID-19 domestic and international restrictions effective Dec. 15 /update 28

Event

As of Dec. 9, authorities have introduced a ban on flights from Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique, Angola, and South Africa, until further notice, in response to the spread of the Omicron variant of COVID-19. Likewise, authorities will update COVID-19 domestic and international restrictions from Dec. 15. From that date, individuals will have to show a negative COVID-19 PCR test or a vaccination certificate to access public places, administrations, businesses, restaurants, and snack bars. Individuals will have to pay XAF 20,000 to undertake a PCR test. Bars and nightclubs will be permitted to operate after curfew hours if all employees are vaccinated. Establishments will continue to require a negative test valid for 14 days or a vaccination card to permit entry. From Dec. 15, international flights will increase weekly flights per airline from two to five.

Domestic Measures
The following measures remain in effect as of Dec. 9:

• A nationwide 21:00-05:00 curfew is in place for unvaccinated people.

• Authorities continue to restrict entry and exit to Greater Libreville; individuals undertaking such travel require special authorization as well as proof of a negative COVID-19 test. It does not apply to vaccinated travelers.

• Social gatherings are limited to 30 people.

• Facemasks are mandatory in public areas and on public transportation.

• There are capacity limits on public transport. Taxis may carry only two passengers.

International Travel
The following measures remain in effect as of Dec. 9:

• Land and sea borders are closed. Cargo transportation and essential services are permitted entry with prior authorization.

• Foreigners intending to enter the country require a letter of permission. All passengers must provide a negative PCR test taken no more than three days before departure. Travelers must also fill in a health declaration form, and provide a hotel reservation receipt that can be downloaded from the Gabon COVID-19 platform.

• All passengers must take a compulsory COVID-19 test upon arrival at Libreville International Airport (LBV). From Dec. 15, unvaccinated passengers will have to quarantine for five days in a government-approved hotel. Vaccinated travelers must self-isolate if COVID-19 results are positive until further instructions from the Gabonese health authorities are given.

• Passengers traveling from the UK must gain authorization from the Gabonese Ministry of Foreign Affairs before traveling to Gabon before entry. Travelers can do this via email.

Additional restrictions are possible in the coming weeks, particularly if cases of COVID-19 rise or authorities observe non-compliance with existing regulations.

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.

Resources

World Health Organisation (WHO)
Gabon COVID-19 Portal
Gabon COVID-19 (Twitter)
Gabon International travelers COVID-19 platform