The variant was discovered by South African scientists and
countries such as the UK and other European countries have since put in place
travel restrictions on Southern African countries including Zimbabwe.
In a Communique that was released yesterday, Rwandan Prime
Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente said that the new travel measures were meant to
protect Rwandans against the variant which has been designated as a Variant of
Concern by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
“An extraordinary Cabinet meeting was chaired by His
Excellency Paul Kagame today (yesterday) to discuss Rwanda’s response to the
Covid-19 Omicron variant, which has been designated as a Variant of Concern by
the World Health Organisation.
“While the variant has not been detected in Rwanda, its
effects are potentially dangerous and therefore Rwandans and residents of
Rwanda are required to exercise extra vigilance in the practice and enforcement
of preventative measures,” said Prime Minister Ngirente.
Some of the measures that have been put in place, with
immediate effect, include the suspension of direct flights between Rwanda and
Southern Africa.
While all arriving and departing passengers at Kigali
International Airport are now required to present a negative Covid-19 PCR test
taken 72-hours prior to departure.
All arriving passengers must quarantine for 24-hours at a
designated hotel at their own cost. A Covid-19 PCR test will be taken upon
arrival at own cost, and an additional test, covered by the Government of
Rwanda, taken on day 7 from the arrival date, at a designated testing site.
“A 7-day quarantine at own cost will be required for
passengers travelling from, or those with a recent history of travel in,
particularly affected countries. This list will be communicated by the Ministry
of Health, following continuous assessment of global health conditions, in
collaboration with the relevant international institutions,” added the Rwandan
PM’s communique.
Rwanda now requires people attending events/gatherings
including conferences, concerts, weddings, festivals or exhibitions to be fully
vaccinated and tested.
“As much as possible, gatherings should take place outdoors
or in well-ventilated spaces,” concluded Prime Minister Ngirente.
The Omicron variant has not yet been detected in Zimbabwe,
but authorities have since put in place tighter measures at ports of entry as
the country is now on high alert. Herald
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