By Karen Nyeraurombo
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has relaxed the majority of lockdown restrictions following a consistent decline in new COVID-19 infections and related deaths.
The relaxation allow most businesses and SMEs to resume operations although bars remain closed.
In his address to the nation, Mnangagwa said, “Curfew is adjusted and will now be from 10pm-5:30 in the morning. Letters are no longer required for movement.
“Supermarkets can now remained open up to 7pm to reduce congestion and must enforce social distancing within their premises.
“Industry to open with strict adherence to the WHO set standards and national COVID-19 set standards, such as the regular disinfection of premises, social distancing, hand sanitisation and use of body temperature checks at entrance will continue.
“Non compliance with such will attract targeted closures of such entities,” he said.
Mnangagwa added that “As per previous announcement SMEs and food markets and informal sectors can reopen on condition that they strictly adhere to WHO set standards and national COVID-19 guidelines.
“Schools must prepare to open and put in place measures which observes WHO protocols and national COVID-19 guidelines,” he said.
With regards to intercity travel and social gatherings such as churches and other events that had been banned, the President said they can resume but only for limited numbers.
“Intercity travel can now resume bus operators must however ensure the disinfection of their buses, wearing of masks, temperature checks and sanitisation of passengers.
“Funeral gathering to remain at 30 people, other social gatherings shall not exceed 50 people. Restaurants can open only for takeaways and deliveries no sit-ins.
“Beer-halls, night clubs, gymnasiums remain closed. Bottle-stores must strictly serve takeaways as required by the law,” he said.
Mnangagwa’s decision to open the economy goes in line with pleas from the informal sector which is the mainstay of the economy.
According to statistic, most people in Zimbabwe are employed in the informal sector doing various jobs. Get more Covid-19 Stats from CovidZW.info
Mnangagwa relaxes lockdown restrictions
