Zimbabwe on Tuesday reviewed COVID-19 curfew which was
starting at 6pm to 8pm while also extending business operating hours to 1630,
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa has
said.
The current dusk to dawn curfew was imposed in July to
contain rising local cases of COVID-19. Currently, Zimbabwe has 5 308 confirmed cases, including 3
848 recoveries and 135 deaths.
Addressing a post Cabinet briefing, Mutsvangwa said the
review was meant to improve the public’s convenience.
“Having noted the plight of the public and the need to
lessen the risk of contracting COVID-19, Cabinet directed as follows: (a) that
the business hours which were ending at 15:00 hours be revisited to end at 1630
hours and the curfew to be extended to 2000 hours; (b) that Public transport
drivers undergo regular COVID-19 PCR tests and (c) that public transport buses
be allowed a dedicated lane at roadblocks to expedite their passage,” she said.
Mutsvangwa also revealed that, to date, 183 163 Covid-19
tests have been conducted.
“The cumulative rapid screening and PCR tests conducted as
of 17 August, 2020 are 183 163 (99 651 RDT and 83 51299 (PCR),” she said.
Mutsvangwa said Cabinet assured members of the public that
measures were being put in place to ensure that health workers return to work,
as the success of implementing the COVID-19 response hinges on the availability
of health staff.
“Acquisition of Protective Personal Equipment (PPE) for
health workers and front liners is being prioritized,” she said.
Zimbabwe’s health workers are currently on strike citing
financial incapacitation to come to work.
Cabinet also noted that preparations for schools reopening
were being executed, said Mutsvangwa.
“Regarding Primary and Secondary Education, Cabinet notes
that the sector is continuing with its preparations for the re-opening of
schools for final examination classes. The developed and approved guidelines
that were put in place for the June 2020 examinations will be used for the
holding of the final examinations in November/December,” she said.
New Ziana
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