03 Jan 2022 | 10:04 AM UTC
Eswatini: Authorities amend domestic COVID-19 restrictions nationwide as of Jan. 3 /update 22
Authorities in Eswatini modify domestic COVID-19 measures as of Jan. 3; international travel restrictions remain unchanged
Event
Authorities have slightly modified domestic COVID-19-related restrictions as of Jan. 3. The nightly curfew now runs from 23:00-04:00, gatherings after 20:00 are prohibited, and the consumption of alcohol is prohibited in gatherings of more than 20 people. The country remains at Adjusted Risk Level 1. International entry restrictions remain unchanged.
Domestic Measures
A nationwide curfew is in place from 23:00-04:00.
Business hours likely remain restricted. Restaurants cannot serve alcohol after 19:00.
Religious services likely remain limited to two times a week, though strict health protocols must be respected.
Religious and community gatherings, including weddings, likely remain limited to 200 people outdoors and 100 people indoors.
Memorial services likely remain limited to a maximum of 50 people and to a duration of two and a half hours.
Outdoor entertainment events are permitted to have a maximum of 500 people. Alcohol is not permitted at these events.
Sport activities including non-contact, low and medium-risk sports are allowed (golf, tennis, athletics, cricket, etc.). No spectators are permitted at any sporting activity.
All other social gatherings are prohibited until further notice.
Facemasks remain mandatory on public transport and in many additional public spaces. Authorities continue to advise working from home where possible.
Public transport continues to operate at up to 100-percent capacity with restrictions on standing passengers.
Temperature checks may be carried out at roadblocks between cities.
International Travel
Travel to the country remains restricted unless for medical reasons, education, work, and business purposes.
Travelers entering Eswatini must provide a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours prior to the time of departure. All travelers will be screened upon arrival. Those arriving without a negative COVID-19 test result or showing symptoms of the virus will be required to take a test at their own cost.
Travelers may be subject to mandatory quarantine for up to 14 days; this is likely if a traveler tests positive.
Travelers should present a negative COVID-19 test result taken no more than 72 hours prior to departure when exiting the country. Individuals showing symptoms of COVID-19 will not be permitted to leave the country and will need to quarantine for up to 14 days.
Measures are also in place for essential travelers such as daily commuters.
Authorities could reintroduce, ease, or otherwise amend restrictions at any time based upon disease activity. Additional restrictions are possible in response to security-related developments.
Advice
Follow all official instructions. Reconfirm quarantine requirements before travel. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm business appointments, deliveries, and travel arrangements. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.
