The Embassy of the Republic of Zambia in Harare wishes to inform Zambians intending to travel to Zimbabwe that the country is currently under national total lockdown with effect from 5th January, 2021 to 5th February, 2021 following the outbreak of the Covid-19 variant, by Diramakini Reporter.
According to Ambassador of the Republic of Zambia in Harare, Zimbabwe, His Excellency Mr. Emmanuel Chenda, the national lockdown includes a 12-hour curfew from 18:00 hours to 06:00 hours in the morning. The public has been implored to take heed of the Government’s Covid-19 national lockdown level four measures and restrictions and stay at home except movement to access food and medicines.
Police are expected to arrest anyone found in public places such as supermarkets, banks, pick up points and others without or improperly wearing masks and not practising social distancing.
All gatherings including weddings, churches have been banned and public places such as bars and restaurants closed. Essential services such as hospitals, pharmacies and supermarkets remain open between 08:00 hours and 15:00 hours. Public transport is limited and intercity travel is restricted.
The Mission wishes to advise that commercial flights between Zambia and Zimbabwe are available and tourists are authorized to move from airports to designated facilities.
Travellers are required to be in possession of a valid Covid-19 certificate when entering or exiting the country. Travellers are advised to make prior bookings and make confirmations as some hotels may close at short notice.
The borders remain closed until 5th February, 2021. Returning residents are allowed entry and are required to be in possession of a valid Covid-19 certificate issued no more than 48 hours prior to the day of travel.
The Embassy wishes to advise that on leaving Zimbabwe, travellers will be required to present a negative Covid-19 certificate issued no more than 48 hours to boarding the flight or travelling by road.
Individuals who display Covid-19 symptoms despite having the certificate will not be allowed to board and will be charged a processing fee of US$60; and they will have to submit to being screened and tested for the disease at a holding facility. If one tests negative, they will be discharged for self-isolation for 14 days.
Zambians are advised to contact the Embassy in Harare on +263 8677193586 or zambiae@mweb.co.zw should they require consular assistance.