Windhoek - Namibia's President Hage
Geingob on Monday announced a further easing of the country's
coronavirus lockdown to boost economic activity, despite a rise
in confirmed Covid-19 cases.
Geingob said the country would move from "stage 3" to "stage
4" of a five-level exit from lockdown plan, except for the
Erongo region, where the harbour town of Walvis Bay is located
and which is Namibia's coronavirus hot spot.
"The government's approach, to further relax national
restrictions under Stage 4, aims to boost social and economic
activities, while continuing to advocate for intensified public
adherence to health and hygiene protocols to safeguard our
successes," Geingob said.
Namibia has confirmed 63 cases of the novel coronavirus,
with 17 new cases identified in the past 48 hours.
Geingob said under the relaxed regulations, which are
effective June 30, a limited number of tourists from "a
carefully selected low-risk market" would be admitted to help
revive a sector that employs 100 000 people.
Casinos and gambling houses will open for pre-booked clients
with no walk-ins, while informal gambling houses will be allowed
to open as long as they maintain a logbook.
The relaxed regulations will also see the number of people
allowed at public gatherings such as weddings, funerals and
religious services increased to 250 from 50. Sporting activities
will now be permitted, subject to adherence to the public
gathering limit.
Geingob said the country could move to "stage 5" in
September, which will see borders reopen as well as the
resumption of air travel.