THE Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) has dismissed claims
that it now requires proof of Covid-19 testing from its stakeholders and that
all clearing agents are supposed to go under mandatory testing for them to
access services.
In a statement, Zimra said it does not require a
certificate or proof of recent negative Covid-19 tests from its stakeholders
visiting any of its offices or premises. Zimra said it only encourages its
stakeholders to remain vigilant and minimise the possible transmission of Covid-19.
The revenue authority also advised stakeholders to utilise
online services to minimise face-to-face interaction between officials and
customers. Zimra also distanced itself from a statement circulating on social
media purporting to have been generated by the revenue authority instructing
all stakeholders including clearing agents to undergo mandatory testing and
produce proof of testing before they could access its services.
“The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority wishes to correct
misleading information that was contained in an internally generated notice
that was issued to clearing agents on the 6th of August, 2020. The statement
under the heading Notice to all clearing agents, transporters-meausures to
contain the rise in cases of Covid-19 infections at border posts, gives the
incorrect impression that all persons, clients and stakeholders visiting Zimra
premises are required to produce proof of having been recently tested for Covid-19.
This is not the correct position, Zimra does not require a certificate or proof
of recent negative Covid-19 tests from its stakeholders visiting any of its
offices or premises,” reads part of the statement.
Zimra said it was following World Health Organisation (WHO)
guidelines and the Ministry of Health in safeguarding its employees and prevent
them from contracting Covid-19.
“The correct position is that Zimra is aware that due to
the positioning of our offices, inland and border stations, there is a need to
remain vigilant in observing and practising procedures that reduce the high
risk of exposure to Covid-19. In the interest of safeguarding employees,
clients and the public as directed by the guidelines from the World Health
Organisation, the Ministry of Health and Child Care, Zimra is implementing
measures to mitigate the likely impact and risks of this viral threat to
operations and human life.
“The current measures at our border posts and stations in
instances of expected or suspected exposure to Covid-19 include but are not
limited to, testing contacts of all suspected Covid-19 cases. Immediate closure
and subsequent disinfection of offices, inland and border stations that might
be at risk. Re-opening of disinfected offices is done with the assistance and
guidance of the relevant local medical authorities. Where practical Zimra
stations and offices maintain critical skeleton staff. Staff are being provided
with appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and sanitisers and
services are, as much as possible, being offered to clients/agents via
electronic means,” reads the statement. Sunday News
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