Entry Policies Due to Covid-19 for Africa
COVID-19 spread quickly to Africa at the start of the pandemic, starting in Egypt and then Nigeria. Within a few months, the virus spread around the whole of the continent, with every single country in Africa reporting cases.
A big issue within this region of the world was community transmission and limited testing, which made minimizing the spread of the virus more challenging. Due to the less developed healthcare facilities in Africa, many people believe the case numbers have been underreported in some countries during this time.
Therefore, if you are traveling to Africa this year, we always recommend you keep up to date with the local news in the countries you are visiting and are aware of any limitations on healthcare facilities where you are staying.
Africa is comprised of so many different countries, so as you can imagine, the restrictions will vary widely from country to country. In an attempt to minimize imported cases, restrictions are in place throughout the continent to reduce the chance of new variants entering African countries.
Of course, you'll want to check these requirements for the specific countries you are visiting at this time. Before booking your trip, ensure the flights you are offered are realistic at the current time, as you may be unable to transit through certain countries.
Some of the countries require a quarantine of up to 14 days, which will take up a large chunk of your visit.
To minimize the spread of infection and to protect yourself while visiting Africa, ensure you follow the required testing and regulations for your visit. A negative COVID-19 test may be required for entry, and you'll also want to check if you need one to return home following your visit.
Some countries have introduced a mobile app for use with the testing and health declaration, which you'll want to do well ahead of your trip to avoid any delays upon arrival.
As with anywhere in the world, we recommend you check out the regulations listed below for the individual country you are visiting to ensure you prepare for your visit to Africa well in advance this year.
Algeria
Feb 15 2022 Flights gradually resumed at Algiers (ALG/DAAG) Constantine (CZL/DABC) and Oran (ORN/DAOO) airports. However severe limitations remain in effect on routes into and out of Algeria. There is no ban on entry in place but flight options are severely limited. The countrys land border with Niger is open. All other land and sea borders remain closed. Before travel For all passengers on direct flights testing must be carried out 36 hours before departure. For passengers transiting/transferring through Algiers International Airport testing must be carried out 72 hours before departure and a confirmed onward ticket is required. For passengers arriving on long-haul indirect flights testing must be carried out 72 hours before departure. Upon arrival Upon arrival all passengers must undergo a COVID-19 antigen test at their own expense. There is no national contact tracing app at this time. There is no obligation for inbound travellers to quarantine. Face masks are mandatory in public spaces. There is no ban on exiting the country but commercial flights departing Algeria are limited. Authorities require individuals to present certified proof of vaccination against COVID-19 to exit and enter the country until at least 15 February. Local authorities have the power to implement lockdowns in cluster areas at short notice. Partial measures remain in place. Public transportation is operating at a reduced capacity on weekdays. Capacity restrictions are in effect on board to ensure social distancing. A ban on public and private gatherings is in place. Leisure spaces beaches and cultural and sports venues have reopened. Hospitality establishments may resume indoor services at 50 percent capacity. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: Individuals are required to present certified proof of vaccination against COVID-19 to access some public venues including concert halls stadiums theatres cinemas and sports facilities. Covid Pass availability: No details were immediately available about the application process. Algeria has been one of the most affected countries in Africa by the COVID-19 pandemic due in part to the governments slow response to the outbreak and the countrys poor health sector capacities. Authorities have the power to implement local lockdowns and have periodically re-imposed restrictive measures in areas where cases have spiked. A vaccination campaign is underway however less than 13 percent of the population are fully vaccinated as of mid February.
Benin
Feb 18 2022 Cotonou Cadjehoun Airport (COO) is operating at close to pre-pandemic levels however some flight reductions cannot be ruled out. Land and maritime travel to and from Benin remains heavily restricted and limited to freight transport and approved cases of extreme necessity. The land border with Togo is closed and it remains unclear whether exceptions are made for ground travel between the two countries. Before travel All inbound travellers must present a negative PCR test result no older than 72 hours prior to departure. After arrival For those staying in the country longer than 15 days a further PCR test will be required. There is no national contact tracing app. Travellers who test positive on the TDR test are required to self-isolate while awaiting the results of the PCR test. Travellers who test positive on the PCR test will be subject to a 15-day quarantine in a government-designated facility at the their own expense and will receive treatment free of charge. Quarantine areas will be guarded by security forces and the Government of Benin will retain passengers passports until all testing and isolation requirements are met. Face masks in public are compulsory: police have been directed to ensure compliance. Outbound travellers who have spent at least three days in the country must present proof of a negative COVID-19 test result to be permitted entry into Cotonou Cadjehoun Airport (COO/DBBB).Tests are bookable via centresurveillancesanitaire.bj. Authorities recommend that travellers be tested at least 72 hours prior to departure to ensure that the result is received in time: the test may be completed up to 120 hours prior to departure. Travellers may also be subject to safety measures at the airport such as using hand sanitiser and walking through a disinfectant fogger machine. Strict distancing measures are in effect along with restrictions on businesses and gatherings. Domestic flights are operating. Distancing measures are in effect on board public transport with capacity limited to 50 percent. Taxis are limited to three passengers. Nightclubs are closed and religious events are banned until further notice. Bars restaurants and entertainment spots have reopened. Visits to public institutions including government buildings remain limited. Schools universities and other educational establishments as well as most businesses have reopened. Gatherings of over 50 people are prohibited. Government officials have urged everyone to continue to apply barrier gestures against COVID-19 such as wearing masks frequent handwashing with soap or disinfectant and maintaining a physical distance of at least 1 metre. Daily cases were decreasing as of February and tighter restrictions could be re-imposed at short notice should cases further rise. As of mid-February at least 14 percent of the population is fully vaccinated.
Botswana
Feb 18 2022 International passenger flights resumed through Gaborone (GBE/FBSK) Kasane (BBK/FBKE) Francistown Airport (FRW/FBFT) and Maun (MUB/FBMN) airports. Proof of vaccination is required to enter Botswana. Borders crossings with Zambia Namibia Zimbabwe and South Africa have reopened to international travellers. Before travel Unvaccinated and partially vaccinated inbound travellers must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test valid within 72 hours prior to departure. Children aged under five years old are exempt. Fully vaccinated travellers are exempt from this measure. Upon arrival Travellers arriving by air without proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test must take a test on arrival. If arriving in Botswana by land all travellers are required to undergo an additional cost-free COVID-19 test at the border crossing. Fully vaccinated travellers are exempt. bSafe is an optional mobile app for contact tracing. Only symptomatic travellers will face testing and possible isolation. Those who test positive on arrival will be required to isolate at a government-approved facility at their own expense. Travellers from high risk countries may be required to quarantine at a government facility and must take a test on the seventh day. Face masks are mandatory in public spaces on public transport and at workplaces. All those exiting Botswana are required to present a negative PCR test result of no older than 72 hours. Social distancing and the mask mandate remain in place. Non-essential businesses and schools have been allowed to reopen under specific health guidelines. Authorities have lifted a state of emergency along with most domestic restrictions. Phase four of the vaccination rollout program started in December with at least 46 percent of the population fully vaccinated as of mid-February.
Burundi
Feb 21 2022 Bujumbura International Airport (BJM/HBBA) Burundis only international airport has reopened to international flights. Land borders with Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of the Congo border crossing at Gatumba-Uvira are open. All other borders are closed to travel except for cargo and goods transport. Before travel All arriving travellers are required to present a negative PCR test carried out 72 hours prior to boarding. Infants aged 24 months or less are exempt from testing unless they display symptoms or a family member tests positive. Upon arrival All travellers must undergo a second PCR test on arrival at Bujumbura Airport (BJM/HBBA) or at the border crossing if travelling by land and must quarantine at home or in a hotel until results are available (around 24 hours). Tests on arrival cost USD100 for foreign nationals and USD30 for Burundian nationals. Tests can be booked in advance via cousp-minisante.gov.bi/Home/detail/domicile. There is no national contact tracing app. All inbound travellers must undergo a 24-hour quarantine at home or a hotel whilst they wait for their PCR test results. Those who test positive on arrival will be subject to quarantine for 14 days. Face masks are mandatory on public transportation and recommended in busy public spaces. All outbound travellers must check-in four hours prior to departure and present a negative COVID-19 test carried out 72 hours prior to boarding any outbound flight. Land borders with Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of the Congo have reopened. Domestic restrictions including social distancing and the use of facemasks remain in place. For domestic overland travel a negative COVID-19 test dated within one month may be required at control points. Throughout the pandemic officials have been reluctant to impose domestic restrictions and downplayed the severity of the virus. Limited domestic restrictions remain in place. Cases are decreasing as of late February and less than 0.1 percent of the population have been fully vaccinated.
Cameroon
Feb 13 2022 Government officials have implemented a series of measures with social distancing rules remaining in place as a small number of COVID-19 cases continue to be detected on a daily basis. A vaccination campaign was launched in April but authorities have since then fought misinformation hesitancy and skepticism about the vaccine with about 2.4 percent of the population fully vaccinated as of early February. Commercial flights are operating to and from Cameroon. Individuals with valid visas can enter the country by air. Land and sea borders remain closed until further notice. Only freight transport is permitted. Before travel A negative PCR test result dated within 48 hours prior to arrival is required for entry. Arrivals who do not comply with this requirement must undergo testing upon arrival. Upon arrival All travellers are subject to a test on arrival at the airport. There is no national contact tracing app. Only travellers who test positive upon arrival must isolate at home or in a government facility at their own expense depending on their symptoms. Isolation centres are operating at Yaounde Central Hospital Laquintinie Hospital in Douala Garoua Regional Hospital and Kribi District Hospital. Although quarantine is not mandatory travellers are encouraged to limit contact with others for 14 days after arrival. Protective face masks must be worn in all public places including public transport. Violators may face fines. A negative COVID-19 test from a designated lab taken within 48 hours of boarding an international flight is required for exit. Travellers must register their test results in the Yaounde or Douala databases depending on their point of departure. Land and sea border closures remain in place alongside limited internal and domestic travel restrictions. Restrictions to public transportation capacity have been lifted. Public gatherings of more than 50 people are banned. Non-essential businesses were allowed to resume operations including bars and restaurants.
Central African Republic
Feb 14 2022 Limited commercial flights were allowed to resume at Bangui MPoko International Airport (BGF/FEFF). Airlines can operate one inbound and one outbound flight per week. Passengers are required to wear face masks social distance use hand sanitiser submit to temperature tests and disinfect hand luggage. Flights operated by foreign governments and NGOs were temporarily banned from operating in the country due to ongoing fighting between government and rebel forces. A state of emergency was implemented from 21 January - 31 August 2021. Further fighting could once again prompt a similar order. Several neighbouring countries including Congo-Brazzaville and South Sudan have closed their borders with the CAR. The Democratic Republic of Congo Cameroon and Sudan recently reopened their borders with the CAR however. Before travel All incoming travellers must present a negative PCR test result that is no older than 72 hours upon arrival. There is no national contact tracing app. Those permitted entry into the country must undergo a 14-day self-quarantine. Diplomats and members of international organisations or humanitarian organisations must only quarantine until a negative test is obtained from the Pasteur Institute. Masks must be worn in public spaces and on public transportation. Officials recommend staying at home but most non-essential businesses are open. A nationwide curfew was imposed following clashes between government forces and rebel groups. A 22:00-05:00 local time curfew is in effect nationwide due to security reasons. A 18:00-05:00 local time curfew is in effect in Ouaka prefecture due to security reasons. Public transportation and commercial flights are operating but options remain limited. Airline schedules may change with little notice. Some domestic restrictions remain in place including social distancing measures and the use of facemasks. Places of worship and restaurants are open. Authorities have given few situational updates and rarely modified preventative measures. The CAR has severely limited healthcare infrastructure to monitor and treat cases due to ongoing internal conflict. Partial measures remain in place with reinforcement subject to the security situation. Approximately 12 percent of the population has been vaccinated as of mid-February.
Chad
Feb 15 2022 NDjamena International Airport has reopened to international flights. Land borders remain closed to passenger traffic. Before travel All travellers who are 12 or older are required to provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test result not older than 72 hours upon arrival. Upon arrival Travellers must take an antigen or RT-PCR test on arrival at their own expense (USD40). Vaccinated travellers are exempt from the testing requirement on arrival. After arrival Travellers are required to take a second PCR test and provide a receipt on the seventh day of self-quarantine if they are planning on staying in the country for more than seven days. There is no national contact tracing app. Travellers are required to surrender their passports to authorities and self-quarantine for seven days on arrival. Passports will be returned upon presentation of a PCR test receipt after seven days. Travellers staying for less than seven days are not required to quarantine but must follow local measures and indicate their place of stay and local contacts. Wearing a face mask is mandatory in public. Travellers staying for longer than seven days in Chad must obtain the second PCR test in order to leave the country. Vaccinated travellers are exempted from the testing requirement on departure unless requested by the country of destination. Social distancing measures are in effect after a curfew in some regions was lifted. Domestic flights and urban public transport have resumed. Social distancing measures are in effect. Provincial governors are allowed to impose additional measures including curfews when the COVID-19 situation requires it. The government has struggled to contain COVID-19 infections due to low testing levels and a lack of kits and staff. Restrictions have periodically been re-imposed with every spike in COVID-19 cases due to the threat on the countrys fragile healthcare system. As of mid February less than two percent of the population have been fully vaccinated.
Comoros
Feb 14 2022 International flights were allowed to resume. However commercial flight options remain limited. All sea ports are closed to traffic from COVID-19 affected countries. Before travel All travellers are required to provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test less than 72 hours old. Temperature checks are administered on all arriving passengers at airports: those exhibiting a temperature of over 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 Fahrenheit) are required to undergo a second PCR test. There is no national contact tracing app. Travelers arriving without a negative PCR test or showing symptoms are required to take a PCR test on arrival and quarantine for 3-5 days at a government-designated hotel until the results of the test are ready. Masks must be worn in public spaces and on public transportation. A PCR test dated within 72 hours before departure is required to exit the country. A nightly curfew remains in effect until further notice. A nationwide night time curfew from 23:00 to 05:00 local time is in effect until further notice. In Moheli the curfew runs from 20:00-06:00 local time. Travel between islands including to and from Moheli has previously been subject to a PCR test however it was not immediately clear whether this is still the case. Public transport is available but with restrictions on passenger capacity (10 in buses and four in taxis). Private events including weddings are allowed with up to 50 guests. Religious services are permitted under strict health and safety guidelines. Markets are permitted to open until 16:00 local time Monday-Saturday and must close on Sundays for sanitisation. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: A COVID-19 vaccination pass is required for everyone aged 18 and over for entry to public offices venues and events businesses - including supermarkets and banks - as well as airports taxis and public transport. Entry to vaccination sites medical emergency services and mosques is exempt. Police conducts random checks to enforce the measure. Covid Pass availability: Authorities did not immediately specify how one may obtain the vaccination pass in order to be exempt from domestic restrictions. Authorities have implemented domestic measures including travel restrictions between the islands of Grande Comore Moheli and Anjouan curfews and a ban on public gatherings. The countrys borders are being gradually reopened to international travel and a slow vaccination campaign continues with approximately 33 percent of the population fully vaccinated as of mid-February.
Congo
Feb 14 2022 International flights were allowed to resume. The countrys maritime land and river borders remain closed except for the transport of goods until further notice. Before travel All travellers aged 11 and over must provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test result no older than 72 hours upon arrival. Passengers without a test or with a test older than 72 hours will be subject to a test on arrival which must be paid for by the traveller and costs XAF40000 (USD70). Upon arrival All travellers are required to pay XAF 40000 (USD 70) for a PCR test on arrival and self-quarantine until results are available. Tests can be pre-booked via www.voyage-congo.com. There is no national contact tracing app. All travellers will be required to pay XAF 40000 (USD 70) for a PCR test on arrival and self-quarantine either at home or in accommodation until results are available. Tests can be pre-booked via www.voyage-congo.com. Travellers arriving from countries where there is a high variant concentration will be required to quarantine for 14 days. Further details including a list of affected countries were not immediately disclosed. Those transiting the country must quarantine at their expense at a designated facility until they resume their travel. Masks must be worn in public and on public transport. Departing passengers are required to present a negative PCR test result of no older than 72 hours. Test results can be obtained at the National Public Health Laboratory in Pointe-Noire the Laboratoire National de Sante Publique in Brazaville or the Fondation Congolaise de la Recherche Medicale also in Brazzaville. A curfew is in place in Brazzaville and Pointe Noire as part of a nationwide state of emergency which will remain in effect until at least 21 April. A nightly curfew is in effect in in Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire from 23:00-05:00 local time nationwide through at least 21 April. Domestic flights have resumed. Non-essential overland travel in and out of Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire is restricted. Local public transport is operating at reduced capacity. Places of worship schools restaurants and bars are open. Gatherings are generally capped at 50 people. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: A COVID-19 vaccination certificate is required for entry to public services banks and all travel by air road rail and waterways between large cities. Covid Pass availability: Authorities did not immediately specify how vaccination status must be presented in order to be exempt from domestic restrictions. Previously officials in Congo-Brazzaville gradually ramped up restrictions before moving to ease lockdown measures as cases dropped. A nationwide state of emergency remains in place with stricter measures implemented in Brazzaville and Point Noire. As of mid-February COVID-19 cases have remained consistently low and only around 12 percent of the population have been fully vaccinated.
Namibia
Feb 15 2022 Windhoeks Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH/FYWH) reopened to international commercial traffic. Only the Katima Mulilo Ariamsvlei and Noordoewer crossings and Walvis Bay Harbor are open for international arrivals by land and sea. Other borders remain closed. Before travel All travellers must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result no older than three days (72 hours) prior to entry. Those under five are exempt. Fully vaccinated Namibian nationals and residents are also exempt. Travellers are required to undergo pre-travel COVID-19 testing in an accredited laboratory and use the Trusted Travel Platform to verify tests: those with a test result from a non-accredited laboratory must upload a copy on the Global Haven System for authentication. Fully vaccinated Namibians permanent residence permit holders diplomatic passport holders truck drivers persons providing public health services and non-Namibians living within a 60 km radius of Namibian borders are exempt from presenting a negative PCR test result upon entry. A full list of exemptions can be found here. Random testing on arrival may be carried out. There is no national contact tracing app. Arrivals who possess a negative test result of no older than 72 hours will not be required to quarantine. Non-Namibian travellers arriving without a test or with a test older than seven days will be tested on arrival and placed in quarantine at their own expense until a negative result is obtained. Face masks must continue to be worn in public areas and on public transport. Some restrictions on gatherings remain in effect after the nationwide curfew was lifted. Domestic flights and public transportation are operational and there are no restrictions on intercity and interstate travel. All domestic flight passengers must wear masks and undergo temperature checks prior to boarding. Public gatherings are permitted with 500 participants. Some businesses must operate with restrictions on capacity and operating hours. Liquor stores may operate from 09:00-18:00 Monday to Friday and from 09:00-13:00 on Saturdays while restaurants bars and nightclubs may sell liquor until 21:00 Monday to Saturday: all liquor sales are banned on Sundays. Namibia like many African countries has extremely poor access to vaccines with at least 13 percent of the population fully vaccinated as of mid-February. Cases are decreasing as the country exits its fourth wave of the virus: authorities are gradually easing restrictions on movement and gatherings.
Niger
Feb 16 2022 Flights to and from the country have resumed. There is no entry ban in place and all borders are open. Before travel Travellers arriving by air must present a negative PCR test of no older than 72 hours. COVID test results must be submitted on Trusted Travel to receive a QR code. Those without a pre-travel negative PCR test must pay a fine of EUR500 undergo a rapid and PCR test upon arrival at their own expense and self-quarantine until results are available. Passengers showing symptoms may also be tested on arrival. Foreign nationals who refuse to be tested on arrival are subject to deportation. Transit travellers must present a negative PCR test of no older than 72 hours. After arrival All travellers staying for longer than 14 days in the country will be subjected to a free of charge PCR test. If the test result is negative their quarantine period will be terminated. If it is positive travellers will be taken to care facilities and may undergo another PCR test on the 13th day of quarantine. There is no national contact tracing app. All travellers staying for longer than 7 days in the country must self-quarantine for seven days. On the seventh day of the quarantine they will be subjected to a free of charge PCR test. If the test result is negative the quarantine period will be terminated if positive travellers will be taken to care facilities and may undergo another PCR test on the 13th day of quarantine. Masks must be worn in public spaces and on urban transport. A negative PCR test no older than five days is required to exit the country. Appointments can be made with the Centre de Recherche Medicale et Sanitaire Niger (CERMES) on phone numbers: 20752040 20752045 88526448 or 80090111. A state of emergency is in effect until further notice. Most domestic and international restrictions have been relaxed. Most non-essential businesses have reopened except nightlife establishments. Large gatherings are banned but do occur. Authorities lifted a curfew in Niamey and reopened the borders to international travel but more severe restrictions could be reimposed should a spike in cases occur. A nationwide state of emergency is in place until further notice. A vaccination campaign is also underway but less than 5 percent of the population have been fully vaccinated as of mid-February.
Rwanda
Feb 15 2022 All commercial flights to and from Rwanda including through Kigali International Airport (KGL/HRYR) were allowed to resume. Foreign nationals are permitted entry by air. Most land borders are closed until further notice except to Rwandan nationals and legal residents. However border crossings between the Democratic Republic of the Congos (DRC) North Kivu province and Rwandas Western province reopened for education and healthcare workers medical patients students and traders with special permission to travel. Before travel All travellers five years and older are required to present a negative RT-PCR test no older than 72 hours prior to departure. A COVID-19 test is also required for travellers entering and exiting Western province from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). All travellers transiting via Rwanda must present a negative PCR test dated no older than 72 hours before departure. Transit passengers who leave the airport or who are in transit for more than 12 hours must also take a second test on arrival. Upon arrival All travellers are required to take a second PCR test on arrival at a cost of USD60. The test can be booked online. Transit passengers who do not leave the airport or who are in transit for less than 12 hours are exempt from the second test on arrival. After arrival All travellers are required to take a rapid antigen test on day 3 after arrival at their own expense. There is no national contact tracing app. Masks must be worn in public. All departing travellers are required to present a negative RT-PCR test no older than 72 hours prior to departure. All Rwandan nationals are required to be fully vaccinated to exit the country. A nationwide curfew is in place. A nationwide curfew from 00:00-04:00 is in effect until further notice. Public transport operate at full capacity for seated passengers only. All passengers on public transport must be fully vaccinated. All visitors to the countrys national parks must undergo a further COVID-19 test at their own expense. Tests can be booked by appointment via reservationsrdb.rw or +250 (0)788313800. Businesses bars and restuarants must close by 23:00. Restaurants can open at 50 percent capacity indoors and 75 percent capacity outdoors. Most events and gatherings are restricted to people who have been tested or vaccinated. Weddings are limited to 40 people (unless in the home which may only have 20 attendees) and funerals to 20 people indoors and 50 outdoors. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: Proof of full vaccination is required to access restaurants bars gyms public pools and personal care businesses attend religious services and weddings or use public transport including motorbikes and bike taxis. A negative COVID-19 test no older than 72 hours is required at funerals weddings events personal care businesses and gyms. Covid Pass availability: Vaccination status can be verified via the governments vaccination portal. The government is currently working on expanding testing and vaccines to fight off a third wave of the virus as cases rise. As of mid-January COVID-19 restrictions were tightened amid an increase in the number of cases. Around 53 percent of the population have been fully vaccinated as of mid-February as infections decrease.
Sao Tome and Principe
Feb 15 2022 Commercial flights are operating. Cruise ships are banned from docking. Before travel Inbound travellers are required to present a negative COVID-19 test result not older than 72 hours prior to departure. There is no national contact tracing app. Travellers will be screened on arrival and those who show symptoms are likely to be subject to isolation measures either at a hospital or government-designated hotel. The use of masks is mandatory in enclosed public spaces on school grounds and in public and private vehicles unless only the driver is present. Those under the age of 10 are exempt. Travellers aged 12 and above are required to present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure. From 15-28 February authorities lowered the State of Calamity to a State of Alert. Travellers between Sao Tome and Principe must take a rapid test within 48 hours prior to departure from either island. Travellers who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 are exempt. From 15-28 February Discos and nightclubs can reopen and public parties can resume. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: Individuals must present certified proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test to attend some gatherings facilities and events including baptisms weddings care homes and prisons. Covid Pass availability: Authorities did not immediately disclose how proof of vaccination must be presented in order to be exempt from restrictions. Authorities have declared a state of calamity with social distancing measures and restrictions on gatherings and business operations in effect on both Sao Tome and on Principe. COVID-19 cases are rising while a slow vaccination drive has resulted in at least 28 percent of the population receiving both doses as of mid February.
Senegal
Feb 15 2022 Commercial flights have resumed. Authorities announced on 7 October 2021 that all passengers arriving by air will be allowed into the country. Permitted travellers must present a negative COVID-19 test result issued within the previous five days or proof of full vaccination against COVID-19. Overland borders are open to travellers. Sea borders are also open. Before travel All inbound passengers arriving by air are required to present a negative PCR test taken within five days of arrival. Travellers with a 39:pass sanitaire39: (health pass) issued by respective authorities that includes required doses of WHO approved vaccines received at least 14 days prior to travel are exempt. All unvaccinated transit passengers who stay in the country longer than 24 hours or who wish to exit the airport are required to present a negative PCR test taken within five days of arrival. Those in transit for less than 24 hours are exempt. There is no national contact tracing app. Those found to be infected with COVID-19 may be required to isolate in a government-designated facility for 14 days. Face masks must be worn in public including on public transport and in offices shops and personal vehicles. Violators of restrictions may incur fines or be detained by law enforcement officials. There are no special requirements to exit the country. Social distancing guidelines are in place. Domestic flights are operating and there are no restrictions on inter-region travel. Public transport is in operation. Most businesses are open and operating with social distancing measures. Senegal is experiencing a slow rise in COVID-19 cases as of mid-January. A massive vaccine rollout is underway alongside public awareness campaigns however less than 10 percent of the population are fully vaccinated as of mid February.
Somalia
Feb 17 2022 International flights are operating. Visa-on-arrival service was suspended for Kenyan nationals. Kenyan citizens seeking to enter Somalia must obtain a travel permit from the Somali Embassy in Nairobi prior to departure. Before travel Following the resumption of international flights all air travellers are required to obtain a negative COVID-19 test certificate not older than 72 hours. A test dated within 96 hours is required for entry into Somaliland. There is no national contact tracing app. Travellers who have been to high-risk countries including Uganda India Sri Lanka the United Kingdom Mexico South Africa Nepal the United Arab Emirates Iran Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh within 14 days prior to arrival must self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival. Travellers showing symptoms will be isolated in quarantine at a government-approved facility on arrival and citizens and residents who arrive without a negative test result are required to self-quarantine for 14 days. Arrivals to Somaliland showing symptoms will be isolated and citizens and residents who arrive without a negative test result may be required to quarantine at a government-approved facility for 14 days at their own expense. Wearing masks is mandatory across the country. In order to leave the country travellers are required to show a valid negative COVID-19 test that is no older than 72 hours. Tests are available at Digfeer Hospital Medipark Diagnostics and other private hospitals. Authorities imposed restrictions on domestic travel and gatherings to contain the spread of the virus. A nighttime curfew is in place in Mogadishu. No further details about it were immediately available. Domestic flights have resumed. All public gatherings and events are banned and all civil servants must work from home. Individuals were advised to abide by social distancing measures. Gyms sport centres and playgrounds are closed. Sports events weddings and protests are banned and federal and state governments were authorised to impose nightly curfews. Working from home is required for non-essential employees until at least 15 January: as of 17 February it is unclear whether this requirement still applies. Somalia has severely limited healthcare infrastructure to monitor and treat cases due to ongoing internal conflict. The pandemic has also exacerbated ongoing humanitarian crises in the country. Vaccinations are underway as part of the COVAX scheme. As of mid-February less than six percent of the population was fully vaccinated.
Sudan
Feb 17 2022 Khartoum International Airport (KRT/HSSS) and Port Sudan International Airport (PZU/HSPN) are open to limited international passenger flights from several locations including Ethiopia Egypt the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Turkey. Cargo humanitarian repatriation and oil company charter flights are operating. Sudans eastern border crossings with Ethiopia are closed. Land border points between Sudan and South Sudan have re-opened. Cargo and passenger movement by land river and rail are expected to resume. Before travel All travellers arriving from the European Union the United Kingdom North and South America Australia and New Zealand need a negative PCR test result no older than 96 hours. Children aged seven and under are exempt. All travellers who are not arriving from the European Council countries South and North America Australia UK and New Zealand require a negative PCR test result no older than 72 hours for entry. All travellers arriving from Botswana Kingdom of eSwatini Lesotho Mozambique Namibia South Africa and Zimbabwe must have two negative PCR test results to enter the country. The first PCR test must be taken at most 24 hours before departure and the second PCR test must be taken at most 6 hours before departure. This requirement is in effect until at least 19 March. Upon arrival Travellers from Ethiopia and Egypt will be re-tested upon arrival. There is no national contact tracing app. Travellers arriving from Botswana Kingdom of eSwatini Lesotho Mozambique Namibia South Africa and Zimbabwe must self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival. Travellers arriving without a negative result from a pre-travel PCR test will be required to quarantine for 14 days at their own expense. Individuals were advised to wear face masks in public. All departing foreign nationals are required to present a negative PCR test dated within 72 hours. Social distancing measures are in effect until further notice. Large social gatherings including prayer gatherings were banned nationwide while workplaces were also ordered to operate with reduced capacities and education institutions were closed. A state of emergency was imposed in North Kordofan state: all social political and tribal gatherings in governmental and private institutions as well as the collective breaking of the fast of Ramadan are banned until further notice. Civil servants work at half capacity and prayers in mosques were capped at 15 minutes. The Red Sea State Governor has declared a COVID-19 health emergency in Port Sudan Suakin and Halayeb districts. Under the declaration all educational and religious institutions as well as parks clubs stadiums funeral halls and most markets remain closed. Authorities lifted a curfew along with most other domestic restrictions and have also started to relax restrictions on international travel despite consistently high COVID-19 cases and a failed healthcare system. Authorities may implement harsher restrictions at short notice. As of early February less than six percent of the population were fully vaccinated.
Sudan
Feb 17 2022 Khartoum International Airport (KRT/HSSS) and Port Sudan International Airport (PZU/HSPN) are open to limited international passenger flights from several locations including Ethiopia Egypt the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Turkey. Cargo humanitarian repatriation and oil company charter flights are operating. Sudans eastern border crossings with Ethiopia are closed. Land border points between Sudan and South Sudan have re-opened. Cargo and passenger movement by land river and rail are expected to resume. Before travel All travellers arriving from the European Union the United Kingdom North and South America Australia and New Zealand need a negative PCR test result no older than 96 hours. Children aged seven and under are exempt. All travellers who are not arriving from the European Council countries South and North America Australia UK and New Zealand require a negative PCR test result no older than 72 hours for entry. All travellers arriving from Botswana Kingdom of eSwatini Lesotho Mozambique Namibia South Africa and Zimbabwe must have two negative PCR test results to enter the country. The first PCR test must be taken at most 24 hours before departure and the second PCR test must be taken at most 6 hours before departure. This requirement is in effect until at least 19 March. Upon arrival Travellers from Ethiopia and Egypt will be re-tested upon arrival. There is no national contact tracing app. Travellers arriving from Botswana Kingdom of eSwatini Lesotho Mozambique Namibia South Africa and Zimbabwe must self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival. Travellers arriving without a negative result from a pre-travel PCR test will be required to quarantine for 14 days at their own expense. Individuals were advised to wear face masks in public. All departing foreign nationals are required to present a negative PCR test dated within 72 hours. Social distancing measures are in effect until further notice. Large social gatherings including prayer gatherings were banned nationwide while workplaces were also ordered to operate with reduced capacities and education institutions were closed. A state of emergency was imposed in North Kordofan state: all social political and tribal gatherings in governmental and private institutions as well as the collective breaking of the fast of Ramadan are banned until further notice. Civil servants work at half capacity and prayers in mosques were capped at 15 minutes. The Red Sea State Governor has declared a COVID-19 health emergency in Port Sudan Suakin and Halayeb districts. Under the declaration all educational and religious institutions as well as parks clubs stadiums funeral halls and most markets remain closed. Authorities lifted a curfew along with most other domestic restrictions and have also started to relax restrictions on international travel despite consistently high COVID-19 cases and a failed healthcare system. Authorities may implement harsher restrictions at short notice. As of early February less than six percent of the population were fully vaccinated.
Tanzania
Feb 13 2022 Restrictions such as the use of masks and social distancing are largely absent throughout Tanzania. Medical facilities personnel and treatment are limited. However a vaccine campaign is underway with about 2.2 percent of the population vaccinated as of early February. Authorities allowed international flights to resume. There is currently no entry ban in place. The border with Burundi is open only at the Kobero-Kabanga and Mugina crossings. Before travel All travellers must present a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test or a Nucleic Acid
Amplification Test (NAAT) no older than 96 hours before departure. Children aged 5 and below are exempted from testing requirements. Upon arrival All travellers are subject to a rapid test on arrival at their own expense. Travellers to mainland Tanzania can pay for the test via a link obtained when completing the pre-departure surveillance form while travellers to Zanzibar can pay for the test on zanzibarcovidtesting.co.tz/app/home. There is no national contact tracing app. Travellers who test positive upon arrival will also be subject to 14 days self-quarantine and produce a negative RT-PCR test in order to be released. Face masks are mandatory in crowded areas including markets health care facilities offices and restaurants in Dar es Salaam. Individuals were urged to wear face masks across the rest of the country however it is not compulsory except at border crossings and airports. All travellers will be subject to a rapid test at their own expense before exiting the country. International air travel has resumed alongside limited domestic restrictions. Commercial flights and public transportation are operating. There are no restrictions on public gatherings. Most busineses are open.
Togo
Feb 13 2022 Authorities have previously imposed curfews and lockdown measures but most international and domestic restrictions have now been lifted. As of mid-January COVID-19 infection rates are high and around 13 percent of the population have been fully vaccinated. A state of emergency is in effect through at least 16 September. International flights are operating to and from the country but remain very limited. Authorities have implemented an entry policy based on the principle of reciprocity. Travellers arriving from countries that require individuals arriving from Togo to be vaccinated will need to bring proof of full vaccination in order to enter Togo. They are also not exempt from the requirement of presenting a negative PCR test result no older than seven days on arrival. Land borders are closed until further notice. Before travel All arriving travellers must present a negative PCR test obtained within seven days of departure. Upon arrival All travellers must undertake a second pre-paid PCR test upon entry at a cost of XOF40000 (USD72). Arrivals must download TOGO SAFE a mobile app for contact tracing during their stay in the country. As of 4 February the app appears to be unvailable for downloads for Android. All travellers must self-quarantine until results from the second PCR test taken upon arrival are obtained (usually within 24 hours) and if positive will be required to quarantine for 10 to 21 days at home or at a government-designated facility until a negative test result is obtained. All travellers from South Africa must quarantine at a government-designated facility at their own expense for three days. Masks must be worn in public spaces. All travellers including infants and children must register and complete an online traveller declaration form and undergo a COVID-19 test at their own expense within three days of departure. Departing travellers who test positive will not be allowed to board their flights and will be isolated by the authorities. COVID-19 related domestic restrictions were slightly eased on 10 October 2021 and will remain in place until further notice. Public transport is operating at reduced capacity. COVID-19 related restrictions were slightly eased on 10 October 2021 following a decline in new cases. All large bars and places of worship were allowed to reopen but weddings cultural sporting and political events are banned and nightclubs are closed. Funerals are limited to a maximum of 15 participants and require government approval. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: Only vaccinated individuals are allowed entry into public buildings. Covid Pass availability: Vaccination passes can be downloaded online or paper versions can be obtained at health centres.
Tunisia
Feb 21 2022 Authorities may impose tighter restrictions in areas with a high infection rate. All incoming passengers aged 18 and above must bring proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 in order to be allowed entry. Nationals and residents who arrive without proof will be permitted entry but required to undergo a quarantine. Incoming travellers who are not fully vaccinated will be required to pay for a mandatory five-day hotel quarantine in one of the approved quarantine hotels below: The following groups are exempt from the mandatory quarantine: Travellers who test positive on a random upon arrival test are required to self-quarantine for at least five days or up to seven days if symptomatic. Face masks are mandatory for those over the age of six in public spaces and on public transportation including private taxis: violators may be fined. There are no special requirements to exit the country: though Tunisians wishing to travel abroad must present a vaccine pass. Before travel Unvaccinated travellers arriving in Tunisia must present a negative PCR test result with a QR Code no older than 48 hours or an antigen test result with a QR code no older than 24 hours prior to departure. Unvaccinated travellers transiting via Tunisia must present a negative PCR or antigen test result with a QR Code no older than 48 or 24 hours prior to departure respectively. Transit travellers must also comply with entry requirements for their final destination. Upon arrival Travellers will be subject to a random test on arrival. After arrival Unvaccinated travellers are required to undergo a test on day five to end their quarantine. Houses of worship restaurants hotels and cafes were operating at 50 percent capacity with social distancing measures in place. Hospitality establishments must close at 22:00 local time daily. All gatherings are banned regardless of attendees vaccination status until further notice. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: A vaccine pass is mandatory to attend demonstrations public and private activities or indoor and outdoor gatherings as well as enter all public and private administrations including cafes restaurants hotels and tourist establishments: public transport will be unaffected. Covid Pass availability: An authorised vaccine certificate from a healthcare provider is required. Vaccinated foreign nationals arriving in the country will be provided with a pass on arrival. Authorities have periodically imposed lockdowns and curfews to help control the spread of the virus. However international travel has been allowed to resume to help the countrys struggling tourism sector. Authorities continue to implement local lockdown on areas with a high number of cases. As of mid-February at least 52 percent of the population have been fully vaccinated. Individuals are required to download the E7mi app for contact tracing. Users have reported difficulty with login and registration on the application data can also be filled in on the E7MI website. A 22:00-05:00 curfew is in effect in Tataouine governorate until further notice. It was not immediately clear non-essential domestic travel remained banned following the bans 9 February end date.
Zambia
Feb 13 2022 The government has periodically tightened and relaxed restrictions in line with infection rates. A slow vaccination campaign is underway with at least nine percent of the population fully vaccinated as of early February. International flights were allowed to resume. Tourist and business visas are available on arrival and in advance. Before travel All inbound travellers must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result of not older than 72 hours prior to departure. Inbound travellers must also upload a copy of their PCR test to the Global Haven System for authentication before arrival. There is no national contact tracing app. Symptomatic travellers will be quarantined either at home or a government facility until a negative test result is obtained. Individuals are advised to wear masks in most public places. Masks are mandatory on public transport. Effective 1 December travellers are required to present a Ministry of Health approved travel certificate of a negative COVID-19 PCR test result from a certified laboratory prior to outbound travel. Inbound outbound and transiting travellers should validate their test results via the African Union Trusted Travel or UNDP Global Haven systems or through local health authorities. The government has advised individuals to wear face masks and maintain social distancing. Regional airports are open and domestic flights are operational though services may be limited. Individuals are advised to maintain social distancing measures and avoid all gatherings. Restrictions on capacity and operating hours of some businesses may be in effect.
Zimbabwe
Feb 16 2022 Airports are open to international travellers. Land borders are open for vaccinated travellers. Unvaccinated travellers can enter the country through a land border if they are transiting Zimbabwe and flying out of the country on the same day. However they must produce a printed version of their flight ticket. Proof of reason for cross-border travel is required. Returning nationals and essential transport workers are exempt. Lockdowns have been periodically imposed following a spike in cases and authorities are known to arrest violators. The latest lockdown was relaxed in early September 2021. The country has a shortage of vaccines amid a nationwide fourth wave. As of early February approximately 22 percent of the population is fully vaccinated. International flights to and from the country have resumed. Before travel Travellers are required to present a negative PCR test result from an approved facility no older than 48 hours prior to departure. Test results must be presented on the Trusted Travel Initiative Platform.
However returning residents may opt to get tested upon arrival and remain in a government facility while awaiting the results. Upon arrival All incoming travellers are subject to a PCR test on arrival. After arrival Unvaccinated travellers must take a PCR test on day 5 of quarantine. There is no national contact tracing app. Unvaccinated travellers are required to quarantine for 10 days. Those have spent more than 14 days outside Zimbabwe before arrival will be subject to quarantine at a government-designated facility at their own expense while those who have been outside Zimbabwe for less than 14 days can quarantine at home if their accommodation is suitable. Travellers will be re-tested on day 5 of quarantine. Face masks must be worn in public. A negative PCR test no older than 48 hours is required for departure. Level 2 restrictions including a nightly curfew were imposed nationwide. Individuals violating curfew may be subject to fines and/or arrest. A countrywide curfew from 00:00-05:30 local time is in effect. Government employees and health workers are exempt from these restrictions. Domestic Air Zimbabwe flights were allowed to resume between Harare and Bulawayo and Victoria Falls. Public gatherings of up to 100 people are allowed as part of Level 2 restrictions while offices can operate at half capacity. Hotel and lodge bars and restaurants are open to their residents from 08:00-22:00. All other restaurants bars and fast food outlets are open only for those fully vaccinated from 07:00 to 19:00. Schools will reopen on 7 February. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: Bars nightclubs cinemas theatres gyms art galleries and health spas as well as markets restaurants churches and university exams were allowed to reopen for fully vaccinated individuals. Covid Pass availability: Authorities did not immediately specify how vaccination status must be presented in order to be exempt from domestic restrictions.