Botswana: Authorities tighten COVID-19-related movement restrictions ahead of religious holidays as of March 31 /update 24

Botswana tightens COVID-19 restrictions ahead of religious holidays as of March 31. State of Public Emergency extended through Sept. 30.

Event

Authorities in Botswana have tightened movement restrictions ahead of religious holidays as of March 31 due to the increasing number of COVID-19 cases. All movement permits have become immediately invalid as of March 31 and will remain so for the Easter break duration. Holders with invalidated permits are permitted to apply for a travel permit valid for 24 hours in order to travel back to their residence. The movement restrictions do not apply for essential workers in possession of movement permits and are permitted to travel as per usual. Additionally, authorities have extended the State of Public Emergency through to at least Sept. 30. Several restrictions remain in place until further notice:

International Travel
Air travel has resumed at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) in Gaborone, Maun International Airport (MUB), Kasane International Airport (BBK), and G. Matante International Airport in Francistown (FRW). Moreover, several land border posts are also operating, including the Tlokweng, Martin's Drift, Pioneer Gate, and Ramatlabama crossings with South Africa; Kazungula Road crossing with Zambia; the Ramokgwebana crossing with Zimbabwe; and the Ngoma, Mohembo, and Mamuno crossings with Namibia.

Persons entering Botswana must produce a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival. Moreover, additional screening procedures and testing are in force at the nation's entry points; travelers exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms could face isolation or quarantine at their own expense. Returning Botswanan citizens and legal residents who do not possess a negative COVID-19 test certificate will be tested at the border and face up to 14 days of quarantine at a government facility. Nonresident foreigners who do not meet requirements will be denied entry. Travelers permitted to enter the country must contact the local health authority daily for a period of 14 days to self-monitor and report any COVID-19 symptoms.

Domestic Restrictions
A nationwide curfew between 20:00-04:00 remains in place until further notice. During curfew hours, only individuals performing essential services and in possession of a permit are allowed to be outside their homes. The majority of banks, shopping centers, and other previously nonessential businesses are allowed to operate, provided they implement social distancing measures and require the wearing of protective facemasks.

Precautionary health measures, such as social distancing between passengers, are in place on domestic flights. Passengers must submit to health screenings before boarding flights.

Authorities have divided Botswana into nine COVID-19 zones to manage domestic movements. Travelers must apply for an interzonal travel permit in order to travel between zones. Permits are not required to travel within a zone. Those traveling to or from high-risk COVID-19 zones may be required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test.

An increased security presence is likely throughout Botswana. Violations of COVID-19 regulations are punishable by fines and/or incarceration. Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

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 possible ground shipping and travel delays.