What's the government response timeline for Namibia?

State of Emergency not yet declared

Screening/temperature checks at airports, no initial ban until the 14th

Not until State of Emergency on March 17

""The Namibian government is suspending inbound and outbound travel to and from Qatar, Ethiopia and Germany with immediate effect for a period of 30 days," Geingob said." https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/news/africa/2020-03-14-namibia-reports-first-two-cases-of-coronavirus-imposes-travel-ban/

There was a Corona Care Campaign that news articles reported on, but this was in late March (focused on coordinating donor funds, but also encouraging residents on good hygiene).

Testing those who show symptoms and have travelled from high-risk countries or have been in contact with confirmed cases. For examplle, see: https://allafrica.com/stories/202003220035.html

Contact tracing begins as Namibia records its first case. See: https://www.iol.co.za/news/africa/namibia-confirms-two-covid-19-cases-44882925. Also: https://allafrica.com/stories/202003220035.html

Schools closed as part of state of emergency: https://allafrica.com/stories/202003171066.html Includes closing of universities, such as University of Namibia: http://unam.edu.na/sites/default/files/management_resolutions_on_covid-19.pdf

Shops, shopping malls and supermarkets told to put measures in place to ensure and enhance hygiene at all times to protect all clients and customers, such as the provision of alcohol-based hand sanitizers, and face masks for employees. See: https://allafrica.com/stories/202003171066.html

State of Emergency directive. "For a period of thirty (30) days following the adoption of this measure, trade fairs, sports, events, and demonstrations to be postponed." https://allafrica.com/stories/202003171066.html

State of Emergency directive. "For a period of thirty (30) days following the adoption of this measure, large public gatherings (of not more than 50 people) be suspended; schools, religious gatherings, customary, weddings, funerals, and all parades for uniformed forces to be suspended until further notice" https://allafrica.com/stories/202003171066.html

State of Emergency only requires hand sanitizer and masks be provided: "For a period of thirty (30) days following the adoption of this measure, owners of public transport vehicles to provide hand sanitizers and masks to all their clients/passengers and enforcement the laws on overloading strictly" https://allafrica.com/stories/202003171066.html

"Suspension of the issuance of visa on arrival at the Hosea Kutako International Airport and implementation travel ban of foreign nationals (by air and sea) from affected countries, namely Schengen States, China, Iran, Korea, United Kingdom, United States of America and Japan." https://allafrica.com/stories/202003171066.html

In State of Emergency declaration: "Public awareness messages and campaigns should be intensified using all media avenues and platforms to reach every community member in all regions" https://allafrica.com/stories/202003171066.html

Health Minister Kalumbi Shangula announced that travel into Namibia from all countries is banned with immediate effect. See: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-namibia/namibia-announces-travel-ban-partial-lockdown-after-seventh-coronavirus-case-idUSKBN21B30R

Granting of the policy relief to borrowers by DBN and AgriBank in the form of a capital repayment moratorium where a holiday is allowed on the principal amount for a period ranging between six (6) months, but not exceeding two years (24 months). See https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19#A

Shops, shopping malls and supermarkets simply directed to put measures in place to ensure and enhance hygiene at all times to protect all clients and customers, such as the provision of alcohol-based hand sanitizers, and face masks for employees. See: https://allafrica.com/stories/202003171066.html

Public transit still operating, albeit with reduced ridership. https://www.namibian.com.na/199425/archive-read/Windhoek-public-transport-feels-Covid-19-pinch

For Khomas and Erdongo regions: "All residents in the restricted areas, including Okahandja and Rehoboth local authority areas are not allowed to leave their homes during the lockdown period, unless such movement by any person in the restricted area is for the following reasons: a. Travel by persons listed in Section 2 above; b. Visits to pharmacies, food supply stores, courts, banks and for medical reasons; c. Physical exercise in groups of not more than three (3) persons." http://www.op.gov.na/documents/84084/1024185/NamibiaCOVID19LockdownGuidelinesFINAL.pdf.pdf.pdf/7ef92483-68b5-4932-98cd-bce76299baf7

Travel restrictions will be in place for the Khomas and Erongo regions beginning Friday, March 27, 2020, and lasting until April 16, 2020. http://www.op.gov.na/documents/84084/1024185/NamibiaCOVID19LockdownGuidelinesFINAL.pdf.pdf.pdf/7ef92483-68b5-4932-98cd-bce76299baf7

Corona Care Campaign remains in effect. https://live.namibian.com.na/public-private-health-join-forces-against-covid-19/

See State of Emeregency. No mention of workplace closing: https://na.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/; https://allafrica.com/stories/202003171066.html

Wage subsidy for hardest hit sectors. To avoid further retrenchments in the hardest-hit sectors. Government will provide a wage subsidy to aid businesses in retaining jobs in the tourism, hospitality, travel and aviation and construction sectors. Details will vary across sectors. Government is setting aside about N$400 million for this subsidy. See: https://africa.cgtn.com/2020/04/02/namibia-announces-450m-stimulus-package-to-tackle-covid-19/

See: http://www.mhss.gov.na/documents/119527/775870/STATEMENT+BY+MOHSS+MINISTER+PRESS+BRIEFING+ON+COVID+19+IN+NAMIBIA+01+APRIL+2020.pdf.pdf/1c34de08-aef3-4013-83af-95417a08e3cb

The newly launched COVID-19 Communication Centre provides a platform for all sectors to engage the public on key issues affecting their respective sectors in relation to the COIVD-19 lock-down guidelines. The Centre is interactive, with journalists given an opportunity to ask questions during the daily live press conference as well as through a dedicated email address. See: https://www.afro.who.int/news/namibia-launches-covid-19-communication-centre

Government extends lockdown until May 4. See: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-namibia-idUSKCN21W2SC

Lockdown extended, but informal trading and open markets will still be allowed to operate subject to strict hygiene, social distancing and limits to the number of people who can gather. See:

Government extends lockdown until May 4. https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-namibia-idUSKCN21W2SC

Government extends lockdown until May 4. https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-namibia-idUSKCN21W2SC

Announced on April 15, but effective from midnight April 17 (lockdown extension) - Learners and students will not return to school until further notice. See: https://www.facebook.com/notes/namibian-presidency/covid-19-national-response-measures/2736222893155823/

The work from home recommendation for government and private sector employees which was in place for 14 days ending 17th April 2020 will be extended to Tuesday, 5th May 2020, but the current prohibition relating to certain operations and closure of certain business activities have been revisited to allow for the opening of informal trading and open markets, subject to strict hygiene, social distancing and limit of gathering. See: https://www.facebook.com/notes/namibian-presidency/covid-19-national-response-measures/2736222893155823/

Restrictions on internal movement extended to the entire country from April 17 to May 4. http://www.op.gov.na/documents/84084/1007618/Update+on+COVID-19+by+HE+President+Dr+Geingob+-+14+April+2020.pdf/f84d1978-9e1d-4f8b-a0cd-936e4bd35648

"Although the lockdown is imposed starting in the Khomas and Erongo regions, conditions on the movement of people, public gatherings and social distancing should be observed across the country." http://www.op.gov.na/documents/84084/1024185/NamibiaCOVID19LockdownGuidelinesFINAL.pdf.pdf.pdf/7ef92483-68b5-4932-98cd-bce76299baf7

"Any gathering during this period may not exceed more than 10 persons. This includes weddings and funerals." http://www.op.gov.na/documents/84084/1024185/NamibiaCOVID19LockdownGuidelinesFINAL.pdf.pdf.pdf/7ef92483-68b5-4932-98cd-bce76299baf7 “The public is urged to remain at home and avoid public gatherings at places such as bars, shebeens, nightclubs and markets." https://allafrica.com/stories/202003241023.html

For Khomas and Erdongo regions: "All residents in the restricted areas, including Okahandja and Rehoboth local authority areas are not allowed to leave their homes during the lockdown period, unless such movement by any person in the restricted area is for the following reasons: a. Travel by persons listed in Section 2 above; b. Visits to pharmacies, food supply stores, courts, banks and for medical reasons; c. Physical exercise in groups of not more than three (3) persons." http://www.op.gov.na/documents/84084/1024185/NamibiaCOVID19LockdownGuidelinesFINAL.pdf.pdf.pdf/7ef92483-68b5-4932-98cd-bce76299baf7

As above. No new policies.

As above. No new policies.

As above. No new policies.

On Thursday, April 30, Namibian President Hage Geingob announced that the country will begin to gradually reopen from Tuesday, May 5, entering the second stage of lockdown measures introduced amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. In this stage, domestic travel between regions and within cities and towns will be allowed and several businesses will be allowed to reopen, including shopping malls, retail stores, restaurants, hair dressers, and barbers; these businesses will be subject to health and hygiene measures. During stage 2 of the lockdown, which is expected to last through Monday, June 1, foreign nationals will remain banned from entering the country. Namibian citizens will be permitted to return to the country but will be subject to health screenings and a mandatory 14-day supervised quarantine. All individuals will be required to wear masks in public places. Current lockdown measures restricting domestic travel and closing most nonessential businesses will remain in place through Monday, May 4. The purchase and sale of alcohol remains prohibited nationwide. Source: https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/337911/namibia-government-to-ease-covid-19-restrictions-from-may-5-update-3

On Thursday, April 30, Namibian President Hage Geingob announced that the country will begin to gradually reopen from Tuesday, May 5, entering the second stage of lockdown measures introduced amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. In this stage, domestic travel between regions and within cities and towns will be allowed and several businesses will be allowed to reopen, including shopping malls, retail stores, restaurants, hair dressers, and barbers; these businesses will be subject to health and hygiene measures. During stage 2 of the lockdown, which is expected to last through Monday, June 1, foreign nationals will remain banned from entering the country. Namibian citizens will be permitted to return to the country but will be subject to health screenings and a mandatory 14-day supervised quarantine. All individuals will be required to wear masks in public places. Current lockdown measures restricting domestic travel and closing most nonessential businesses will remain in place through Monday, May 4. The purchase and sale of alcohol remains prohibited nationwide. Source: https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/337911/namibia-government-to-ease-covid-19-restrictions-from-may-5-update-3

On Thursday, April 30, Namibian President Hage Geingob announced that the country will begin to gradually reopen from Tuesday, May 5, entering the second stage of lockdown measures introduced amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. In this stage, domestic travel between regions and within cities and towns will be allowed and several businesses will be allowed to reopen, including shopping malls, retail stores, restaurants, hair dressers, and barbers; these businesses will be subject to health and hygiene measures. During stage 2 of the lockdown, which is expected to last through Monday, June 1, foreign nationals will remain banned from entering the country. Namibian citizens will be permitted to return to the country but will be subject to health screenings and a mandatory 14-day supervised quarantine. All individuals will be required to wear masks in public places. Current lockdown measures restricting domestic travel and closing most nonessential businesses will remain in place through Monday, May 4. The purchase and sale of alcohol remains prohibited nationwide. Source: https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/337911/namibia-government-to-ease-covid-19-restrictions-from-may-5-update-3

On Thursday, April 30, Namibian President Hage Geingob announced that the country will begin to gradually reopen from Tuesday, May 5, entering the second stage of lockdown measures introduced amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. In this stage, domestic travel between regions and within cities and towns will be allowed and several businesses will be allowed to reopen, including shopping malls, retail stores, restaurants, hair dressers, and barbers; these businesses will be subject to health and hygiene measures. During stage 2 of the lockdown, which is expected to last through Monday, June 1, foreign nationals will remain banned from entering the country. Namibian citizens will be permitted to return to the country but will be subject to health screenings and a mandatory 14-day supervised quarantine. All individuals will be required to wear masks in public places. Current lockdown measures restricting domestic travel and closing most nonessential businesses will remain in place through Monday, May 4. The purchase and sale of alcohol remains prohibited nationwide. Source: https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/337911/namibia-government-to-ease-covid-19-restrictions-from-may-5-update-3

On Thursday, April 30, Namibian President Hage Geingob announced that the country will begin to gradually reopen from Tuesday, May 5, entering the second stage of lockdown measures introduced amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. In this stage, domestic travel between regions and within cities and towns will be allowed and several businesses will be allowed to reopen, including shopping malls, retail stores, restaurants, hair dressers, and barbers; these businesses will be subject to health and hygiene measures. During stage 2 of the lockdown, which is expected to last through Monday, June 1, foreign nationals will remain banned from entering the country. Namibian citizens will be permitted to return to the country but will be subject to health screenings and a mandatory 14-day supervised quarantine. All individuals will be required to wear masks in public places. Current lockdown measures restricting domestic travel and closing most nonessential businesses will remain in place through Monday, May 4. The purchase and sale of alcohol remains prohibited nationwide. Source: https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/337911/namibia-government-to-ease-covid-19-restrictions-from-may-5-update-3

On Thursday, April 30, Namibian President Hage Geingob announced that the country will begin to gradually reopen from Tuesday, May 5, entering the second stage of lockdown measures introduced amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. In this stage, domestic travel between regions and within cities and towns will be allowed and several businesses will be allowed to reopen, including shopping malls, retail stores, restaurants, hair dressers, and barbers; these businesses will be subject to health and hygiene measures. During stage 2 of the lockdown, which is expected to last through Monday, June 1, foreign nationals will remain banned from entering the country. Namibian citizens will be permitted to return to the country but will be subject to health screenings and a mandatory 14-day supervised quarantine. All individuals will be required to wear masks in public places. Current lockdown measures restricting domestic travel and closing most nonessential businesses will remain in place through Monday, May 4. The purchase and sale of alcohol remains prohibited nationwide. Source: https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/337911/namibia-government-to-ease-covid-19-restrictions-from-may-5-update-3

On Thursday, April 30, Namibian President Hage Geingob announced that the country will begin to gradually reopen from Tuesday, May 5, entering the second stage of lockdown measures introduced amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. In this stage, domestic travel between regions and within cities and towns will be allowed and several businesses will be allowed to reopen, including shopping malls, retail stores, restaurants, hair dressers, and barbers; these businesses will be subject to health and hygiene measures. During stage 2 of the lockdown, which is expected to last through Monday, June 1, foreign nationals will remain banned from entering the country. Namibian citizens will be permitted to return to the country but will be subject to health screenings and a mandatory 14-day supervised quarantine. All individuals will be required to wear masks in public places. Current lockdown measures restricting domestic travel and closing most nonessential businesses will remain in place through Monday, May 4. The purchase and sale of alcohol remains prohibited nationwide. Source: https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/337911/namibia-government-to-ease-covid-19-restrictions-from-may-5-update-3

On Thursday, April 30, Namibian President Hage Geingob announced that the country will begin to gradually reopen from Tuesday, May 5, entering the second stage of lockdown measures introduced amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. In this stage, domestic travel between regions and within cities and towns will be allowed and several businesses will be allowed to reopen, including shopping malls, retail stores, restaurants, hair dressers, and barbers; these businesses will be subject to health and hygiene measures. During stage 2 of the lockdown, which is expected to last through Monday, June 1, foreign nationals will remain banned from entering the country. Namibian citizens will be permitted to return to the country but will be subject to health screenings and a mandatory 14-day supervised quarantine. All individuals will be required to wear masks in public places. Current lockdown measures restricting domestic travel and closing most nonessential businesses will remain in place through Monday, May 4. The purchase and sale of alcohol remains prohibited nationwide. Source: https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/337911/namibia-government-to-ease-covid-19-restrictions-from-may-5-update-3

Measures in force from May 5: Authorities continue to encourage the public to stay at home and limit movement. See: https://www.worldaware.com/covid-19-alert-namibia-relaxing-movement-restrictions-may-5

The domestic travel lockdown was relaxed on May 4th - so people can travel inside the country with some constrains on number of vehicle occupants. See: https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19#E

May 5 measures: Land, sea, and air borders remain closed, except for the movement of goods. Humanitarian and essential workers (non-national) will be allowed to enter the country. Truck drivers entering the country are subject to testing and mandatory, supervised quarantine for a period of 14 days. See: https://www.worldaware.com/covid-19-alert-namibia-relaxing-movement-restrictions-may-5

"Early Childhood Development, Primary, Secondary Schools and Vocational Training Providers to resume face-to-face medium of instruction, with daily screening of learners/students. The resumption of face-to-face instruction will be phased in as follows: 3 June - 18 December 2020 - Grades 11 and 12" https://allafrica.com/stories/202005280754.html

Theatres, cinemas, libraries, galleries, theatres, museums, craft centres, gyms, cafes, and restaurants are permitted to reopen. Nightclubs, casinos, and gambling houses are perceived as high-risk and therefore are not allowed to reopen. https://allafrica.com/stories/202005280754.html

entertainment events, seminars, conferences, and workshops & summits may resume but with adherence to the public gathering limits and the Health & Hygiene protocols. https://allafrica.com/stories/202005280754.html

Under stage 3 of restrictions, public gatherings should not exceed 50 people. https://allafrica.com/stories/202005280754.html

The Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) has partnered with the UNFPA, WHO, CDC, and the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA) and launched a COVID-19 Situation Dashboard on 1 June 2020. https://namibia.unfpa.org/en/events/health-ministry-launches-covid-19-dashboard (this link cannot be archived: https://gisserver.nsa.org.na/portal/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/e8d79f18bd424670b7db99d56866573f)

"The Walvis Bay local authority area reverted to Stage 1 restrictive measures from 2 June. Travel to the rest of Namibia is restricted and travel outside the home must be for essential journeys only, such as grocery shopping visiting the pharmacy or for medical appointments." https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/namibia/staying-during-coronavirus

Borders remain closed while there are still no restrictions on internal movement. https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/namibia/staying-during-coronavirus

Next phase of school reopening set for July. https://allafrica.com/stories/202006040709.html

Stage 3 continues until June 29, "the reopening of bars, restaurants, liquor outlets, cinemas, libraries, gyms and sporting events while observing health and hygiene protocols, with the exception of contact sports, nightclubs and casinos" https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/namibia/staying-during-coronavirus

Stage 3 continues until June 29, "the reopening of bars, restaurants, liquor outlets, cinemas, libraries, gyms and sporting events while observing health and hygiene protocols, with the exception of contact sports, nightclubs and casinos" https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/namibia/staying-during-coronavirus

Border remains closed. https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/namibia

Article details process of comprehensive contact tracing: https://www.namibian.com.na/91916/read/Fugitive-positive-for-Covid-19--as-Namibia-confirms-community-transmission

The travel restriction to the Walvis Bay area (see the note on 2 June) is no longer observed.

https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/namibia/coronavirus FCO travel advice Except for the Erongo region, the whole of Namibia adopted stage 4 restrictions from midnight on 29 June. These restrictions are expected to last until 17 September. Stage 4 measures include: sporting events to include the resumption of contact sports, adhering to public gathering limit of 250 persons;

https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/namibia/coronavirus FCO travel advice There are no commercial flights to and from Namibia.

The school re-opening is gradually planned. Phase 2 will see the resumption of pre-primary to grade 3 from 22 June until December 2020. Thereafter, grade 7 and 9 will resume in phase 3, starting 6 July until 18 December. Phase 4 will then follow with the resumption of grades 4, 5, 6, 8, and 10 where learners are expected to start face-to-face classes on 20 July. https://allafrica.com/stories/202006040709.html According to UNESCO tracker updated on July 24th , Namibia still has localized school closure measures. https://en.unesco.org/covid19/educationresponse

According to UK embassy, the State of Emergency declared on 17 March will last until 17 September. The whole of Namibia adopted stage 4 restrictions from midnight on 29 June until 17 September, except for the Erongo region, which stage 3 measures are expected to last until 3 August. For the Erongo region, restaurants are open to pre-booked customers; bars and liquor outlets may sell alcohol for home consumption only; cinemas, libraries, gyms and sporting events will be subject to limits on customer numbers; contact sports, nightclubs and casinos remain closed. Link: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/namibia/coronavirus

According to UK embassy, the State of Emergency declared on 17 March will last until 17 September. The whole of Namibia adopted stage 4 restrictions from midnight on 29 June until 17 September, except for the Erongo region, which stage 3 measures are expected to last until 3 August. Sporting events to include the resumption of contact sports, adhering to public gathering limit of 250 persons. Masks are needed for both private and public transport, shopping, participating in outdoor group exercise, using public spaces, and at the workplace. However, public gatherings in the Erongo region will be restricted to 50 persons, except for Walvis Bay, Swakopmund and Arandis where gatherings are restricted to 10 persons. Link: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/namibia/coronavirus

According to UK embassy, the State of Emergency declared on 17 March will last until 17 September. The whole of Namibia adopted stage 4 restrictions from midnight on 29 June until 17 September, except for the Erongo region, which stage 3 measures are expected to last until 3 August. Public gatherings in the Erongo region will be restricted to 50 persons, except for Walvis Bay, Swakopmund and Arandis where gatherings are restricted to 10 persons. While in the rest of the country, sporting events to include the resumption of contact sports, adhering to public gathering limit of 250 persons. Link: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/namibia/coronavirus

According to UK embassy, the State of Emergency declared on 17 March will last until 17 September. The whole of Namibia adopted stage 4 restrictions from midnight on 29 June until 17 September, except for the Erongo region, which stage 3 measures are expected to last until 3 August. A requirement for facemasks to be worn when using both private and public transport, shopping, participating in outdoor group exercise, using public spaces, and at the workplace; Link: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/namibia/coronavirus

According to UK embassy, the State of Emergency declared on 17 March will last until 17 September. The whole of Namibia adopted stage 4 restrictions from midnight on 29 June until 17 September, except for the Erongo region, which stage 3 measures are expected to last until 3 August. For the Erongo region, measures are as follows: Public gatherings in the Erongo region will be restricted to 50 persons, except for Walvis Bay, Swakopmund and Arandis where gatherings are restricted to 10 persons. travel between towns in the Erongo region and the rest of the country will be permitted, with the exception of Walvis Bay, Swakopmund and Arandis local authority areas; travel into and out of these areas is highly discouraged and will be restricted to emergency situations only; restaurants are open to pre-booked customers; bars and liquor outlets may sell alcohol for home consumption only; cinemas, libraries, gyms and sporting events will be subject to limits on customer numbers; contact sports, nightclubs and casinos remain closed. All members of the public are required to wear face masks in public spaces and to observe public distancing; Link: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/namibia/coronavirus

According to UK embassy, the State of Emergency declared on 17 March will last until 17 September. The whole of Namibia adopted stage 4 restrictions from midnight on 29 June until 17 September, except for the Erongo region, which stage 3 measures are expected to last until 3 August. Travel between towns in the Erongo region and the rest of the country will be permitted, with the exception of Walvis Bay, Swakopmund and Arandis local authority areas; travel into and out of these areas is highly discouraged and will be restricted to emergency situations only. Link: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/namibia/coronavirus

According to UK embassy, the State of Emergency declared on 17 March will last until 17 September. The whole of Namibia adopted stage 4 restrictions from midnight on 29 June until 17 September, except for the Erongo region, which stage 3 measures are expected to last until 3 August. Borders remaining closed and international flights suspended. Link: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/namibia/coronavirus

According to IMF data, on April 1st the government launched the Economic Stimulus and Relief Package to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 (8 billion Namibian Dollars, or 4.25 percent of GDP), including i) expenditure measures of 2.2 bn for health, wage subsidies for affected sectors, and income grants; and ii) guarantees of up to 2.3 bn to support low interest loans for small and agricultural businesses, and individuals. Link: https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19

According to IMF data, on April 1st the government launched the Economic Stimulus and Relief Package to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 (8 billion Namibian Dollars, or 4.25 percent of GDP), including i) expenditure measures of 2.2 bn for health, wage subsidies for affected sectors, and income grants; and ii) guarantees of up to 2.3 bn to support low interest loans for small and agricultural businesses, and individuals. Link: https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19

According to the Namibia COVID-19 situation report No 122, published on July18th. The government has increased active case search and testing, averaging 300 daily in the past weeks. To date, 18055 tests have been conducted, 3333 contacts of confirmed cases have been identified. Cumulatively, 1235 contacts have completed their 14 days of follow up. Call centre continues operation 24h/day. The link can’t be achieved. https://www.afro.who.int/sites/default/files/2020-07/Namibia%20COVID-19%20SITREP%20No.122.pdf

A requirement for businesses to keep a register of customers, recording time of patronage, full name and contact details, to assist with possible contact tracing. Link: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/namibia/coronavirus According to the Namibia COVID-19 situation report No 122, published on July18th. The government has increased active case search and testing, averaging 300 daily in the past weeks. To date, 18055 tests have been conducted, 3333 contacts of confirmed cases have been identified. Cumulatively, 1235 contacts have completed their 14 days of follow up. Call centre continues operation 24h/day. The link can’t be achieved. https://www.afro.who.int/sites/default/files/2020-07/Namibia%20COVID-19%20SITREP%20No.122.pdf

Although the Government of Namibia recommended reopening schools for phase three, there has been new surge in COVID-19 cases. The government will close schools on the 4th of august. https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-namibia-idUSKCN24W2JN

Namibia eased lockdown measures in 13 of its `14 regions. This means that some workplaces will open. Although these have not been specifically mentioned. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-06-22/namibia-eases-lockdown-to-lowest-level-except-for-walvis-bay

Due to the easing of lockdown, gatherings of up to 250 are allowed for weddings and religious gatherings. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-06-22/namibia-eases-lockdown-to-lowest-level-except-for-walvis-bay

As lockdown measures are eased, gatherings of up to 250 are allowed https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-06-22/namibia-eases-lockdown-to-lowest-level-except-for-walvis-bay

As lockdown measures are eased and there are interregional travel is allowed, it is assumed that public transport is allowed to begin. Social distancing and hygiene measures will continue. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-06-22/namibia-eases-lockdown-to-lowest-level-except-for-walvis-bay

As Lockdown measures ease, people are recommended to stay at home. However, people leaving their homes are required to wear masks. This has become mandatory. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-06-22/namibia-eases-lockdown-to-lowest-level-except-for-walvis-bay

In June, lockdown measures were eased and internal movements were allowed. However, travel into the Erongo region remains restricted. The president of Namibia announced more lockdonwn measures on the 31st of July. Permits will be required to travel to other regions https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/353431/namibia-authorities-announce-further-easing-of-some-covid-19-restrictions-june-22-update-7

Tourists are no longer required to undergo quarantine. They have will have to demonstrate a negative test before arrival and stay at their initial destination for seven days. https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/365346/namibia-authorities-to-reimpose-some-covid-19-restrictions-july-31-update-8

According to the IMF, the government of Namibia is supporting people with income grants and wage subsidies. There is no information to demonstrate that this amounts to more than 50% of lost income for affected groups. https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19a

The government of Namibia is supporting guarantees of up to 2.3 bn to support low-interest loans for small and agricultural businesses, and individuals https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19

There is a coordinated public information campaign with various stakeholders including unesco. https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19

Testing is challenging because of the lack of testing facilities. However, there are efforts to test more people due to community transmission rates rising. https://www.namibian.com.na/200361/archive-read/Covid-19-testing-hit-by-lack-of-reagents

Contact tracing is comprehensive for identified cases. https://neweralive.na/posts/18-contacts-of-namibian-trucker-traced https://www.namibian.com.na/200361/archive-read/Covid-19-testing-hit-by-lack-of-reagents

On July 31, the President announced that in all regions (excluding Erongo, the Local Authority Areas of Walvis Bay, Swakopmund and Arandis), public gatherings are reduced from 250 to 100 persons. Contact sports will be permitted, but no spectators are allowed. Unregistered sports activities that draw crowds must be discouraged in the communities. http://www.op.gov.na/documents/84084/1106542/Statement+by+President+Hage+G.+Geingob+-+14th+Covid+Update+-+31+July+2020.pdf/bd0c4b57-4aef-45ad-a198-4ce85ee8f671?version=1.0

On July 31, the President announced that in all regions (excluding Erongo, the Local Authority Areas of Walvis Bay, Swakopmund and Arandis), public gatherings are reduced from 250 to 100 persons. Contact sports will be permitted, but no spectators are allowed. Unregistered sports activities that draw crowds must be discouraged in the communities. http://www.op.gov.na/documents/84084/1106542/Statement+by+President+Hage+G.+Geingob+-+14th+Covid+Update+-+31+July+2020.pdf/bd0c4b57-4aef-45ad-a198-4ce85ee8f671?version=1.0

On July 31, the President announced that in all regions under Stage 3 restrictions (excluding Erongo, the Local Authority Areas of Walvis Bay, Swakopmund and Arandis), members of the public must: (a) Wear a mask at all times in public spaces; (b) Maintain social distancing; (c) Avoid crowded public gatherings; and (d) Avoid unnecessary travel to and from different parts of the country. In effect until 17 September 2020. http://www.op.gov.na/documents/84084/1106542/Statement+by+President+Hage+G.+Geingob+-+14th+Covid+Update+-+31+July+2020.pdf/bd0c4b57-4aef-45ad-a198-4ce85ee8f671?version=1.0

On July 31, the President announced that ”the face-to-face mode of instruction is suspended for Early Childhood Development, preprimary and Grades 1 to 9, across the country from 4 August 2020, for 28 days. Grades 10, 11 and 12 will be permitted to continue with face-to-face instruction. With regard to Tertiary Institutions where ICT infrastructures are adequate to enable online teaching, learning will continue remotely. Vocational Education Training Providers will continue with face-to-face education for the specified period and as provided for under the current Regulations.” http://www.op.gov.na/documents/84084/1106542/Statement+by+President+Hage+G.+Geingob+-+14th+Covid+Update+-+31+July+2020.pdf/bd0c4b57-4aef-45ad-a198-4ce85ee8f671?version=1.0

On August 12, the President announced that the Government has decided to adjust COVID-19 interventions by migrating the entire country to STAGE 3 of the COVID-19 State of Emergency, coming into force from midnight Wednesday 12 August 2020, for a period of 16 days, until 28 August 2020. Nightclubs, gambling houses, and casinos must close. Announcement: http://www.op.gov.na/documents/84084/1135759/Statement+by+HE+President+Hage+G.+Geingob+-+15th+COVID-19++Update+%2C+12+August+2020.pdf/af1fe24f-5283-4dab-b049-4ba7d97b1558 Details on Stage 3 restrictions: http://www.opm.gov.na/documents/108506/783223/STAGE+3+REGULATIONS_COVID.pdf/3435612d-ae2f-473a-9a54-af3402b9e71e

On August 12, the President announced that the Government has decided to adjust our COVID-19 interventions by migrating the entire country to STAGE 3 of the COVID-19 State of Emergency, coming into force from midnight Wednesday 12 August 2020, for a period of 16 days, until 28 August 2020. Under Stage 3 restrictions public gatherings shall not exceed 50 persons, including weddings, funerals and religious gatherings. Announcement: http://www.op.gov.na/documents/84084/1135759/Statement+by+HE+President+Hage+G.+Geingob+-+15th+COVID-19++Update+%2C+12+August+2020.pdf/af1fe24f-5283-4dab-b049-4ba7d97b1558 Details on Stage 3 restrictions: http://www.opm.gov.na/documents/108506/783223/STAGE+3+REGULATIONS_COVID.pdf/3435612d-ae2f-473a-9a54-af3402b9e71e

On August 12, the President announced that the Government has decided to adjust COVID-19 interventions by migrating the entire country to STAGE 3 of the COVID-19 State of Emergency, coming into force from midnight Wednesday 12 August 2020, for a period of 16 days, until 28 August 2020. Under Stage 3 restrictions public gatherings shall not exceed 50 persons, including weddings, funerals and religious gatherings. Announcement: http://www.op.gov.na/documents/84084/1135759/Statement+by+HE+President+Hage+G.+Geingob+-+15th+COVID-19++Update+%2C+12+August+2020.pdf/af1fe24f-5283-4dab-b049-4ba7d97b1558 Details on Stage 3 restrictions: http://www.opm.gov.na/documents/108506/783223/STAGE+3+REGULATIONS_COVID.pdf/3435612d-ae2f-473a-9a54-af3402b9e71e

On August 12, the President announced that the Government has decided to adjust COVID-19 interventions by migrating the entire country to STAGE 3 of the COVID-19 State of Emergency, coming into force from midnight Wednesday 12 August 2020, for a period of 16 days, until 28 August 2020. The measures under STAGE 3 will come into force from midnight tonight, Wednesday 12 August 2020, for a period of 16 days, until 28 August 2020. Travel within Local Authority Areas is permitted, though travel into and out of these Local Authority Areas to the rest of the country is restricted to emergency situations only. The Government also announced a curfew for these restricted areas between 20:00 and 05:00 daily. Announcement: http://www.op.gov.na/documents/84084/1135759/Statement+by+HE+President+Hage+G.+Geingob+-+15th+COVID-19++Update+%2C+12+August+2020.pdf/af1fe24f-5283-4dab-b049-4ba7d97b1558 Details on Stage 3 restrictions: http://www.opm.gov.na/documents/108506/783223/STAGE+3+REGULATIONS_COVID.pdf/3435612d-ae2f-473a-9a54-af3402b9e71e Details: http://archive.vn/aHsbB