Zimbabwe President Emerson Mnangagwa has effectively lifted the level 4 national lockdown, ending the requirement for exemption letters for travel, as well as allowing SMEs to resume business.

This comes as the number of Covid-19 cases and deaths in the country have declined in recent weeks.

Restrictions on gatherings, as well as on bars and restaurants however remain.

Addressing the nation this afternoon President Mnangagwa said notwithstanding the relaxation of the restrictions, Zimbabweans should remain vigilant as Covid-19 remains a risk.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS:

– The wearing of face masks, temperature checks and use sanitizers remains mandaory

– Curfew is adjusted from 10pm to 5:30am in the morning

– Supermarkets can now remain open up to 7pm.

– SMEs, informal food markets can reopen

– Schools must prepare to open and put in place measures which adhere to WHO protocls

– Universities and colleges must also prepare to open. Long distance learning is equally encouraged where possible

– Intercity travel can now resume but disinfection of buses, temperature checks are mandatory

– Funeral gatherings to remain at 30 people, gatherings (50)

– Beer halls, restaurants remain closed and open for deliveries

– Industry to open with strict adherence to World Health Organisation standards.