THE Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC), has announced that the general school calendar will resume on February 7, 2022 as the country eases the lockdown measures that were meant to curtail the spread of the Omicron variant.
By Michael Gwarisa
In a statement, acting health and child care minister, Professor Amon Murwirwa said the country over the past two weeks recorded a decline in new COVID-19 cases, hence the move to allow schools and other economic sectors to reopen.
The National COVID-19 epidemic curve is indicating that the wave is at its tail end and this wave appear to being brought under control. In this regard, the Acting President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Hon Dr Constantino Chiwenga has reviewed the COVID-19 level 2 lockdown measures as follows.
“The general school calendar starts on 7 February 2022 following one week of finalizing all reopening preparations by both school administrators and parents. The business community to return back to working from their offices whilst continuing to observe COVID-19 prevention measures such as social distancing and also continuing encourage their employees and patrons to get vaccinated,” said Prof Murwira.
He added that the curfew shall now begin at midnight (0000hrs) and end at 05:30 hours the following day. Restaurants and hotels offering catering services to operate from 08:00 hrs to 22:00 hrs and allow sit-ins only for fully vaccinated persons.
“Bars and nightclubs shall open from 08:00 hours to 22:00 hours only for vaccinated persons. All persons entering Zimbabwe must undergo a valid COVID-19 PCR test not more than 48 hours from time of their departure for Zimbabwe. Those who do not have valid negative PCR test and a certificate to that effect shall be denied entry into Zimbabwe.”
Meanwhile, quarantine for locals, returning residents and visitors has been lifted for those fully vaccinated. The wearing of masks in public places, especially public transport and closed space gatherings remain mandatory.
“Eligible members of the public are encouraged to get vaccinated. The provincial COVID-19 task force teams are urged to increase their effort in mobilizing eligible members of the public to get vaccinated. Finally, the practice of World Health Organizations (WHO) recommended COVID-19 preventive public health and social measures that include washing of hands, sanitizing, social distancing, avoiding crowds and gatherings continue,” he said.
