Botswana’s national television station, BTV – announced its first COVID-19 case after it had taken them two weeks to confirm. This was announced by the country’s Deputy President Slumber Tsogwane on Tuesday.
In a statement, the BW government announced the 28 days lockdown, effective 03 April to 30th April 2020.
In a statement, Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi MP, President of The Republic of Botswana said “There shall also be extreme social distancing commencing on 2nd April 2020 at midnight, for a period of twenty-eight (28) days. During this period of extreme social distancing, all individuals across the country will be expected to adhere to a more severe form of social distancing where moving out of the home is only restricted to those performing essential services and transporting essential goods. Those involved will be permitted to travel using the COVID-19 TRAVEL PERMIT that will be issued by Government”
Employees are expected to work from home except those classified as essential.
“Public transport shall be accessible only to employees providing essential services, persons accessing essential supplies and those performing approved critical services.”
“As the situation is evolving, Government Ministries, Independent Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) should regularly review the information contained in the Ministry of Health and Wellness websites. Daily updates are also provided through BTV, radio and other media platforms”
Botswana is officially on lockdown and the laws and regulations are similar to those in South Africa for the COVID-19 battle. Botswana banned the sale of alcohol for 30 days
Essential goods and services will continue making it through our borders.
Please also do not make exoduses to your home villages- you are better off staying where you are to protect yourself and others. A re seka ra siela ko magaeng, ka tswee tswee.
— Dr. Mokgweetsi E.K Masisi (@OfficialMasisi) March 31, 2020
