Corona Virus Declared National Disaster, Public Gatherings Banned, Schools Remain Open
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared the corona virus pandemic a Zimbabwean national disaster in a live broadcast of the State Of The Nation Address at the State House.
As a result, he has suspended all national events and all public gatherings during the speech today.
“Government has decided to postpone, curtail or cancel public events, gatherings and activities,” he said.
The Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), Independence Celebrations and pending international sporting fixtures have been shelved until the threat of coronavirus recedes.
The president said all activities will resume once the Government is satisfied that the country is no longer at risk.
“We must join hands working with the rest of the world on fighting this virus even though it has not yet crossed our borders. We must have a national response plan. Humanity is at risk and stands at hazardous crossroads,” said President Mnangagwa.
Church and wedding gatherings of more than 100 people have been banned for the next 60 days in an effort to combat the spread of the virus. The following measures have also been put in place:
*The Government is creating isolation centres where suspected cases will be investigated
*The government is creating a special fund to mobilise funds to fight the pandemic
*Weekly reports to be made to cabinet from the Disaster Management team led by the Ministry of Health
However, schools will remain open until they close for the April holidays and opening dates will be released in due course.
The countries borders also remain open. You can watch a replay of the live broadcast below.
https://www.facebook.com/zimbabwebroadcastingcorporation/videos/2636714016561842/
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa yesterday declared the virus as an emergency and encouraged people to use the elbow greeting. He also imposed travel restrictions from countries most affected by the coronavirus.
Related Stories
University Of Zimbabwe Have Dismissed Claims That The School Will Close Due To Coronavirus
Just In : British Tourist In Zimbabwe Tested Positive Of Coronavirus
CIMAS Responds To Fake News That It Is Offering Free Service To Coronavirus Patients
Idris Elba, British Actor Tested Positive For Coronavirus
Watch : South African President Encourages Elbow Greetings Rather Than Handshakes Due to Coronavirus
You can see the daily Coronavirus reports from WHO here.
