STAFF REPORTER
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has announced the closure of all the country’s borders for all non-essential travel as part of new measures to stop the spread of coronavirus.
The development comes after Zimbabwe confirmed that prominent broadcaster Zororo Makamba (30) succumbed to the deadly diseases on Monday-the first recorded death caused by coronavirus in Zimbabwe.
“We have decided to ban all non-essential traffic and travel, both inbound and outbound, except for the movement of cargo,” Mnangagwa said.
He added that public gatherings of more than 50 people would be prohibited and encouraged residents to avoid in-country travel.
“With immediate effect, government has put a blanket ban on gatherings around night clubs, bars, beer halls, swimming pools, gymnasiums, movie houses and sporting activities until further notice,” Mnangagwa said.
Further, hospital visits have been reduced to one visit by one person per day.
Informal markets will remain open, but citizens are encouraged to limit their visits while health and security personnel will be deployed to enhance screening services.
With regards to mass transport, new measures will be announced shortly for the safety of commuters.
Where possible, Mnangagwa has called on employers to reduce human concentrations at work places.
He said non-essential staff or essential staff whose services could be rendered from home should be encouraged by employers.
Meanwhile, government has established an Inter-Ministerial Taskforce to coordinate efforts to fight the coronavirus.
It would be charged with briefing the President and also raising awareness and resources
