Staff Writer
President Hage Geingob on Wednesday announced that the country will be easing its lock down measures on the 4th of May at midnight but the country’s State of Emergency declared on 17 March 2020 will remain place for six months.
“The countrywide lockdown will lapse at midnight on Monday the 4th May 2020. Based on our experience, available data and gauging our level of national preparedness, there is merit to relax some of the restrictions,” he said.
The President announced that the country in conformity with global guidelines on the national response to COVID-19. The country will follow four Stages of Restrictions.
“Each Stage will have an average observance period of two incubation periods, which is 28 days. With the end of Stage 1 at midnight on the 4th of May 2020.
“I wish to announce that Stage 2 will come into force for 28 days from 05 May 2020 to 01 June 2020,” he said.
The President said in Stage 2, members of the public will be required to wear facemasks in public spaces, with people permitted to travel domestically between regions and within towns and cities, without restriction. Buying and selling of alcohol remains prohibited throughout the country.
“Our borders will remain closed for non-Namibians but returning Namibians will be permitted to re-enter the country, subject to screening at points of entry and supervised quarantine for 14 days. Businesses and productive activities, unless prohibited, will be permitted to reopen, subject to responsible personal and organizational conduct and in compliance with the prescribed health and hygiene guidelines,” he said.
The Head of State said will review the progression from one Stage to another as this will be informed by developments on the COVID-19 cases.
“The progression from one Stage to another will be informed by developments on the cases and the details of Stages may change. As such, before we move into a subsequent Stage, review will be undertaken to enable Government to agree on what activities will be allowed,” The President said.
“The Stage 3 and Stage 4 in terms of timelines are indicative and intended to assist with business planning. The actual duration of each stage may be reduced or extended, subject to monitoring reports and the changing situation in the country.”
Namibia has only recorded 16 cases of COVID-19, with eight recoveries. The number of cases has remained static for 25 days. There are no reported deaths in Namibia due to COVID-19.
