Qantas is planning to return to Johannesburg from late October 2021! [update]

update (14 May 2021): Qantas has announced a further suspension of scheduled international flights (with the exception of flights between Australia and New Zealand) until 20 December 2021 due to the ongoing Coronavirus situation. 

The flag carrier of Australia, Qantas, has announced that it is planning to restart regular international passenger flights to most of its 25 pre-Covid-19 international destinations from 31 October 2021, instead of July 2021, as it previously forecast. According to the airline, the date change aligns with the expected timeframe for Australia's Covid-19 vaccine rollout to be effectively complete.
Johannesburg in South Africa, along with e.g. London in England and Los Angeles in the USA, will be one of the 22 international destinations Qantas is resuming flights to. Three routes – New York, Santiago and Osaka – will return at a later date.
Qantas says the flight capacity will be lower than pre-Covid-19 levels, with frequencies and aircraft type deployed on each route in line with the projected recovery of international flying. International capacity is not expected to fully recover until 2024.

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Namibia extends the current measures to combat the spread of Covid-19 until end of March 2021!

Namibia's President Dr. Hage G. Geingob, announced during the 25th Covid-19 public briefing on the national response measures on 24 February 2021 that the current measures to combat the spread of Covid-19 will be extended for a period of 26 days, from 25 February 2021 to 31 March 2021. The country's Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr. Kalumbi Shangula, announced in his statement that the following amendments to the Public Health Regulations will come into force at 24:00 on 24 February 2021 until 23:59 on 31 March 2021 (travel and tourism-related only, for a complete list click here):

• Regulation 3: Wearing of masks
• This regulation remains unchanged.
• Regulation 4: Public gatherings
• This regulation remains unchanged. Public gatherings indoors shall not exceed two hours. Law enforement will be enhanced to ensure compliance.
• Regulations 4 A: Restriction of movement (curfew)
• This regulation remains unchanged. However, the curfew starts at 22:00 as is currently the case but ends at 04:00 instead of 05:00. In the case of boarding schools, out-weekends are suspended in schools were cases of Covid-19 have been detected or are suspected.
• Regulation 5: Restrictions relating to liquor
• This regulation remains unchanged. However, liquor may be sold to and purchased on Sundays and Public Holidays by guests booked in or staying at establishments such as hotels, guesthouses, bed & breakfast facilites and casinos
• Regulation 6: Resumption of business operations and activities
• Businesses are allowed to operate within their normal working hours, with adherence to Covid-19 protocols and subject to regulations four and five.
• Regulation 8: Restrictions related to entry into Namibia
• This regulation remains unchanged.
• Regulation 9: Quarantine and Covid-19 testing
• This regulation remains unchanged.
• Regulation 10: Public transport
• This regulation remains unchanged.

Dr. Kalumbi Shangula pointed out in his statement that where no amendments have been effected to a particular regulation, such regulation remains in force as originally gazetted and will thus, continue to have legal force and effect.

South Africa has renamed two cities, three towns and two airports in the Eastern Cape! [update]

update (25 February 2021): Pumza Fihlani from the BBC tells us how to say Gqeberha - the new Xhosa name for Port Elizabeth.

South Africa's Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Nathi Mthethwa, has officially announced a number of name changes for towns, cities and airports as well as spelling corrections and the official registration for existing geographical names in South Africa's Eastern Cape. The changes were published in a Government Gazette (Government Gazette Vol. 668 No. 44181) on 23 February. The Minister approved the new geographical names for the following towns, cities and airports:

• Port Elizabeth International Airport (PLZ) > Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport
• Port Elizabeth > Gqeberha
• Uitenhage > Kariega
• East London Airport (ELS) > King Phalo Airport
• King Williams Town > Qonce
• Berlin > Ntabozuko
• Maclear > Nqanqarhu

For the spelling corrections and the official registration for existing geographical names (villages, human settlements and a mountain), please see the Government Gazette (Government Gazette Vol. 668 No. 44181, 23 February 2021).

Zambia and African Parks to boost the protection of Kafue National Park!

The Government of Zambia and African Parks, a non-governmental organization (NGO) focused on conservation, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to implement a Priority Support Plan for the protection and development of Kafue National Park. The Priority Support Plan will increase technical and financial support for the National Park worth US$3 million over a period of 12 months. During the 12 month, African Parks will work with Zambia's Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) on key priority activities such as  improving critical infrastructure, supporting the DNPW's law enforcement efforts and conducting conservation baseline studies.

Kafue National Park © Frank Weitzer/African Parks

Kafue National Park  is the oldest and largest national park in Zambia, covering an area of about 22,400 km². It is located in in the centre of western Zambia, only a two hours drive from Livingstone. Kafue National Park is home to over 55 different species of mammals including elephants, large predators and 21 species of antelope – the highest diversity of antelope in Africa. Kafue National Park is also designated by BirdLife International as an Important Bird Area, with at least 515 bird species recorded. The National Park is named for the Kafue River.
Kafue National Park forms part of the world's largest transfrontier conservation area, the Kavango–Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA TFCA). It is situated in the Kavango and Zambezi river basins where the borders of Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe converge. It spans an area of approximately 520 000 km² and includes 36 proclaimed protected areas such as national parks, game reserves, forest reserves, community conservancies and game/wildlife management areas.

South Africa: Kulula returns to Lanseria International Airport (HLA)!

South African low-cost airline Kulula[.com] has announced that it will restart its operations at Lanseria International Airport (HLA) from 01 April 2021. The airline will fly between Lanseria and Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town, and Lanseria and King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban. Similar to the re-introduction of its other routes, Kulula[.com] will commence with a limited schedule, adding additional frequencies over the next couple of months. Lanseria International Airport (HLA) is situated north of Randburg and Sandton to the north west of Johannesburg. 

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KLM resumes flights between Amsterdam <> South Africa!

The flag carrier airline of the Netherlands, KLM, is set to resume flights to South Africa. Effective 23 February 2021, the airline can accept the following passengers on flights from Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town and OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg to Schiphol Airport (AMS) in Amsterdam, regardless of their final destination: Dutch nationals, Schengen and other EU residents, Dutch Antilles residents, Medical staff, Seafarers, Airline crew.
KLM will operate daily flights between Amsterdam and Johannesburg as well as three weekly flights on Mondays, Fridays and Sundays between Amsterdam and Cape Town.
According to the airline, the requirements for entry into the Netherlands have not changed. They are as follows:

• a negative PCR test result test conducted less 72 hours prior to arrival/transit in the Netherlands
• an antigen test taken no less than 4 hours before boarding
• a completed health declaration
• 10-day self-isolation period on arrival in the Netherlands if the Netherlands is the final destination. 

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South Africa: British Airways to resume flights between Johannesburg <> Harare (Zimbabwe)!

British Airways, which is operated by Comair Limited in South Africa, is set to resume flights between OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg and Robert G. Mugabe International Airport (HRE) in Harare, Zimbabwe. Effective 28 March 2021, the airline will operate daily return flights to Harare. Bookings for the regional route have already opened. Flights will depart Johannesburg at 09:30 and arrive in Harare at 11:05, while the return flight will depart Harare at 11:45 and arrive in Johannesburg at 13:25.

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South Africa: New toll tariffs on national roads to take effect from 01 March 2021!

South Africa's Minister of Transport Fikile Mbalula has approved the 2021 toll tariffs as recommended by the South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL). The adjustments were gazetted on 11 February 2021 (Government Gazette, volume 668, number 44146). The toll tariffs on South Africa's national roads will be adjusted on 01 March 2021. The toll tariffs are adjusted annually in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) as obtained from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA). The CPI percentage that was applied to determine the 01 March 2021 tariff adjustment is 5%. Only 13% of the 22 253km network in South Africa constitutes toll roads. Discounts offered at specific toll plazas for frequent users as well as qualifying local users were still applicable.

For details on the applicable tariffs, please click here!

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South African Airways: No flights before May 2021! [update]

update (23 March 2021): All SAA operated international flights are suspended until 30 October 2021.

South Africa's flag carrier, South African Airways (SAA), has announced that due to the continuing impact of Covid-19 and the ongoing business rescue process, further network suspension will be implemented until 31 April 2021. Domestic and Regional flights will be suspended up to and including 30 April 2021. In a statement released on 16 February 2021 the airline said that assistance will be provided to all ticketed passengers holding a South African Airways ticket. The announcement (SAA Travel Advice Number 30) is applicable to tickets issued on/before 30 April 2021. Due to the cancellation of flights operated by South African Airways, customers will be able to use the value of the unused ticket or remaining coupon to issue a credit note/voucher for future travel. The airline's no refunds policy remains in force.

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Cape Town: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden implements dual pricing!

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), which manages South Africa's National Botanical and Zoological Gardens, has announced that Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in Cape Town will implement dual pricing for non-South African and South African residents. According to SANBI, the introduction of the new pricing structure is due to the increased costs to the organisation and financial setbacks of 2020 due to Covid-19. 

From 01 April 2021, non-South African residents of 18 years and older will pay R200 for an entry ticket to Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. South African Residents of 18 years and older (with ID) will pay R80, while students from a South African institute (with student card) will pay R45. The admission for scholars/learners will be R25. Children under six years are free of charge and South African residents over the age of 60 (with ID) are granted free entrance on Tuesdays except on public holidays.

Covid-19: Ethiopian Airlines partners with UNICEF for global vaccine distribution!

Ethiopia's flag carrier, Ethiopian Airlines, has announced that it has partnered with UNICEF (United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund) to help secure the transport of vaccines and other life-saving supplies worldwide. Africa's fastest growing airline has committed to prioritizing the transport of the life-saving supplies, ensuring measures such as temperature control and security and adding freight capacity to routes where needed.
The UNICEF Humanitarian Airfreight Initiative has been formed with leading airlines to secure the transport of vaccines, and other life-saving supplies worldwide. These airlines have signed agreements with UNICEF to support the prioritization of delivery of Covid-19 vaccines, essential medicines, medical devices and other critical supplies to respond to the pandemic.
The initiative supports the COVAX Facility, a global solution to the Covid-19 pandemic that ensures participating countries have fair access to vaccines, regardless of their income level. Under COVAX, UNICEF is leading the procurement and delivery of quality-assured Covid-19 vaccines for low-income and lower-middle-income countries.

AAIG Webinar: “Achieving Affordable Air Transport Across Africa”

The African Airlines Association (AFRAA), a trade association of African airlines, is organizing an "African Aviation Industry Group Webinar (AAIG Webinar)" on 03 March 2021, 12:30 pm Nairobi Time (UTC + 3). The event will be held under the theme: “Achieving Affordable Air Transport Across Africa”.
Air transport fares across Africa are among the highest in the world. There are a number of reasons for this and in this webinar, industry leaders in African aviation will discuss why air travel across Africa is so expensive and proffer practical solutions to achieving a sustainable framework to make air travel more affordable.
This webinar will showcase the key challenges affecting African aviation. The sessions and speakers have been carefully chosen to ensure robust discussions and the development of short, medium, and long-term activities aimed at complementing ongoing initiatives in African aviation.

Photo by Randy Rooibaatjie on Unsplash

The AAIG webinar is organized by the African Aviation Industry Group (AAIG) comprising key industry stakeholders such as the African Airlines Association (AFRAA), International Air Transport Association (IATA), Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA), CANSO, Airport Council International (Africa) and Original Equipment Manufacturers (Boeing, Embraer, etc). Please contact AFRAA for further information.

Qatar Airways increases flights to South Africa!

The state-owned flag carrier of Qatar, Qatar Airways, is set to increase flight frequencies to Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg. By March 2021, the airline will operate 28 weekly flights between its main hub Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Doha and South Africa. Qatar Airways announced that Cape Town will increase to seven weekly flights from 01 March 2021, while return flights Durban increased to three weekly flights on 14 February 2021 and return flights to Johannesburg already increased to 18 weekly flights from 26 January 2021. 

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TAP Portugal to launch direct flights between Lisbon <> Cape Town!

The Premier of the Western Cape, Alan Winde, announced during the State of the Province Address 2021 on 17 February 2021 that the flag carrier airline of Portugal, TAP Portugal, is planning to launch a new service to Cape Town. According to Alan Winde, the airline is set to introduce direct flights between Humberto Delgado Airport/Lisbon Airport (LIS) in Lisbon, Portugal, and Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in November 2021. TAP Portugal initially planned to launch flights to Cape Town in November 2020, but due to Covid-19 the airline first postponed the service to December 2020 and than to 2021. We'll keep you posted!

TAP Portugal to launch direct flights between Lisbon <> Cape Town! [update] >>

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Qatar Airways and CemAir have signed an interline agreement!

The state-owned flag carrier of Qatar, Qatar Airways, and privately owned South African regional airline CemAir have signed an interline agreement. The agreement with CemAir provides passengers of Qatar Airways with seamless connectivity to 16 additional domestic and four regional destinations from South Africa.
An interline agreement between airlines allows passengers to change from one flight on one airline to another flight on another airline without having to gather their bags or check-in again.

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Airlink: Flights between Johannesburg <> Nosy Be (Madagascar) remain suspended!

South African privately-owned regional carrier Airlink has announced the further suspension of its service between OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg and Fascene Airport (NOS) on the island of Nosy Be, which is located off the northwest coast of Madagascar. Return flights to Madagascar's largest and busiest tourist resort will remain suspended up until 27 June 2021. According to Airlink Managing Director and CEO, Rodger Foster, the airline has sofar been unable to obtain certainty as to when Madagascar intends to reopen its borders for regional travel. Customers holding tickets will be able to rebook on a future flight at no additional cost. We'll keep you posted!

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Airlink to launch flights between Cape Town <> Walvis Bay! [update]

update (15 April 2021): Airlink has announced that it will be adding more direct flights between Cape Town and Walvis Bay from 01 May 2021.

South African privately-owned regional carrier Airlink is set to launch flights between Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town and Walvis Bay International Airport (WVB) in Walvis Bay, Namibia. Effective 02 March 2021, the airline will operate three weekly return flights to Walvis Bay on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The new route is Airlink’s fourth between South Africa and Namibia, with other services linking Cape Town and Windhoek in addition to flights from Johannesburg to Windhoek and Walvis Bay.

• Cape Town 14:00 > 16:15 Walvis Bay
• Walvis Bay 16:50 > 19:00 Cape Town

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Lufthansa has suspended flights between Fankfurt <> Cape Town!

Germany's largest airline, Lufthansa, has temporarily suspended its direct service between Frankfurt Airport (FRA) in Frankfurt and Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town until further notice. This is due to a general ban on travel and entry from countries with widespread occurrence of Covid-19 virus variants, which includes South Africa, eSwatini and Lesotho. Lufthansa continues to operate three weekly flights between Frankfurt and OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. Swiss, the flag carrier of Switzerland and a subsidiary of the Lufthansa Group, also continues to operate three weekly flights between Zurich Airport (ZRH) in Zurich and Johannesburg. 

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South Africa has reopened 20 land border posts!

South Africa has reopened 20 land border posts with Botswana, Lesotho, eSwatini, Namibia, Mozambique and Zimbabwe to allow normal travel today (15 February 2021). The reopening plan includes a crackdown on fake Covid-19 test certificates. According to South Africa's Minister of Home Affairs, Aaron Motsoaledi, any person presenting themselves at any of the borders with fake Covid-19 certificates will be denied entry and barred from visiting South Africa for a period of at least five years. The 20 land borders were closed since 11 January 2021 as part of South Africa's measures to fight the spread of Covid-19. The following land border posts were reopened today:

Botswana:

• Kopfontein
• Groblersbridge
• Skilpadshek
• Pamathabama

Lesotho:

• Maserubridge
• Ficksburg
• Can Rooyensgate
• Qachasnet
• Caledonspoort
• Sanipass

eSwatini:

• Oshoek
• Golela
• Jeppes Reef
• Mananga
• Mahamba

Namibia:

• Nakop
• Vioolsdrift

Mozambique:

• Lebombo
• Kosibay

Zimbabwe:

• Beitbridge

Namibia: Road between Otavi <> Tsumeb partially flooded!

According to Namibia's Road Authority (RA), whose core business is to construct and maintain the country's road sector, heavy rainfall has caused the road (B1) between Otavi and Tsumeb in northern Namibia to be flooded at kilometre three and kilometre nine. The RA is requesting road users to exercise extreme caution when travelling on that road. As a precautionary measure, road users are advised to take the route via Grootfontein (B8, C42). We'll keep you posted!

Namibia: The Roads Authority has released an update on the conditions of roads in southern Namibia! [update]

update (08 March 2021): Namibia's Road Authority (RA), whose core business is to construct and maintain the country's road sector, has announced that that the following roads in the //Karas Region are now open to traffic:

• District Road D212/C13: Aussenkehr-Rosh Pinah
• Main Road M30 /C17: Keetmanshoop-Koës

Namibia's Road Authority (RA), whose core business is to construct and maintain the country's road sector, has released an update on the status/condition of roads in southern Namibia (as of 12 February 2021):

• Main Road M118 : Aus to Oranjemund road / section between Rosh-Pinah and Oranjemund
• Due to the Orange River in flood, the eastern road shoulder at kilometer 192 (25 km from Rosh-Pinah or 75 km from Oranjemund) has been affected and cracks have developed in the shoulder pavement. However, the road is open to all traffic and we have erected road signs to warn road users about the affected section. The road is narrow, kindly drive slowly, exercise extreme caution and comply with erected warning signs. We will keep monitoring the situation and give updates accordingly.
• District Road  D212 or tourist Route C13: From Noordoewer to Rosh-Pinah (Section between Aussenkehr and Rosh-Pinah)
• The Orange River has flooded and damaged some spots on this road and it is currently not safe to drive this road. The gravel section between Aussenkehr and Rosh-Pinah is thus still temporarily closed to traffic.

Namibia: Impalila Island Border Post has been designated for the purpose of entry and departure!

The Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security has announced that in terms of Regulation 8(3)b of the Public Health Covid-19 General Regulations: Public and Environmental Health Act, 2015, the Impalila Island Border Post (Namibia <> Botswana) has been designated for the purpose of entry into and departure from Namibia with immediate effect, subject to applicable health regulations.

Impalila Island Border Post is located on Impalila Island at the far eastern tip of Namibia, bounded on the north by the waters of the Zambezi River and on the south by the Chobe River. Impalila Island is usually accessed from Kasane in Botswana via the Kasane Border Post, on the other bank of the Chobe River.

Namibia: Air Namibia goes into voluntary liquidation!

The Government of Namibia has announed the decision to file for the voluntary liquidation of Air Namibia. According to a media statement by Namibia's Minister of Finance, Ipumbu Shiimi, Namibia's economy can no longer afford to perpetually provide financial support to the airline at the expense of supporting economic growth and critical social services.
Air Namibia is not profitable and has not been profitable since its inception. It is estimated that so far the Government of Namibia, the sole shareholder of the airline, has spent more than N$8 billion on Air Namibia. The employees of Air Namibia will receive an ex gratia payment equal to 12 months' salary. The liquidation of the airline is expected to cost the Government of Namibia over N$2 billion. 

Namibia: Air Namibia suspends all operations! [update] >>

South Africa: British Airways to launch two new routes to East London!

British Airways, which is operated by Comair Limited in South Africa, is set to launch scheduled fligths to East London in South Africa's Eastern Cape. Effective 17 March 2021, the airline will operate 13 weekly flights between OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg and East London Airport (ELS) in East London as well as seven weekly flights between Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town and East London. The city on South Africa's southeastern Indian Ocean coast in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality will also be displayed as a destination, as part of British Airways’' global distribution network.

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Namibia: Air Namibia suspends all operations! [update]

update (11 February 2021): Namibia: Air Namibia goes into voluntary liquidation! [READ MORE]

update (11 February 2021): The sole shareholder of Air Namibia, the Government of Namibia, has decided to liquidate the airline!

The flag carrier of Namibia, Air Namibia, has announced the suspension of all services. Effective today (11 February 2021), all flight operations will be cancelled, with all aircraft returning to base. The cash-strapped airline has also suspended the reservation system for taking new bookings. Affected passengers are advised to contact Air Namibia to register their claims or refund. According to news reports, Namibia's Government is poised to announce its flag carrier's voluntary liquidation. We'll keep you posted!

 

South Africa: Airlink to resume flights between Johannesburg <> Sishen (Northern Cape)!

South African privately-owned regional carrier Airlink is set to resume scheduled air services between OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg and Sishen Airport (SIS) in Sishen in South Africa's Northern Cape. Effectice 15 February 2021, the airline will commence with four return flights a week on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Airlink is planning to add frequencies as demand on the route picks up. 

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Emirates to temporarily suspend flights to Zimbabwe!

The largest airline of the United Arab Emirates and the flag carrier of the Emirate of Dubai, Emirates, has announced that it will temporarily suspend flights between Dubai International Airport (DXB) in Dubai and Robert Gabriel Mubabe International Airport (HRE) in Harare, a linked service with Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) in Lusaka, from 13 February 2021 to 28 February 2021 due to operational reasons. According to the airline, only flights to Harare will be affected; flights to Lusaka will continue to operate as usual. We'll keep you posted!

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Rwandair has temporarily suspended flights to South Africa, Zambia & Zimbabwe!

Rwanda's flag carrier, Rwandair, has announced the temporary suspension of flights to South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe from 08 February 2021. This is due to the global concerns on covid variants throughout southern Africa. The airline will resume operations to Cape Town, Johannesburg, Lusaka and Harare as soon there is more clarity on the situation. Affected customers can rebook and fly at a later date at no additional cost - or request a refund. We'll keep you posted!

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Namibia: The Roads Authority has released an update on the conditions of roads in the Karas Region!

Namibia's Road Authority (RA), whose core business is to construct and maintain the country's road sector, has released an update on the status/condition of roads in the Karas Region in southern Namibia that were damaged during the recent good rainfall (as of 02 February 2021):

• Homs River Bridge in Warmbad on District Road 210 (D210)
  The repair works are completed and D210 is accessible and open to all traffic.
• Main Road 30 (M30) or tourist Route C17: From Keetmanshoop to Koës
  Repair is underway, however, the road is still not accessible and is closed to traffic. The RA will release an update when it is accessible, safe and open to traffic
• M 25/Tourist route C11: From Karasburg to MR 26 Junction
  Main Road M25/C11 from Karasburg to Aroab has been made accessible and open to traffic. However, road users are cautioned to drive attentively because the repairs are not completed yet
• Main Road MR 33/C 15: From Stampriet to Hoachanas
  Main Road M33/C15 from Stampriet to Hoachanas has been made accessible and open to traffic. However, road users are cautioned to drive vigilantly because the repairs are ongoing and not completed yet.
  

Rwanda has updated the current Covid-19 prevention measures!

The Government of Rwanda has reviewed the current Covid-19 prevention measures and announced an update. The existing measures will get extended countrywide - including the current lockdown of Kigali - from 03 February 2021 through 07 February 2021. 

From 08 February 2021 until 22 February 2021, the following measures will be in effect in the city of Kigali:

• Movements will be prohibited between 19:00 and 04:00.
• Public offices will be closed.
• Private businesses will resume with essential staff at not more than 30% capacity. Business resuming operations must close by 17:00.
• All schools (public and private), including universities, will remain closed.
• Movement between Kigali and other provinces and districts in Rwanda will not be permitted, except for essential services or tourism.
• Tourism activity will continue in strict adherence with Covid-19 guidelines. Tourists must possess negative Covid-19 test results. Travellers, including drivers, traveling to tourism entities within Kigali and other provinces and districts in Rwanda are required to complete and submit movement requests through the Tourism Movement Facilitation Form. Travellers are also required to send copies of negative COVID-19 test results to visitrwanda@rbd.rw at least 24 hours prior to the trip. More information is found here.
• Public transport will resume within Kigali and should not exceed 50% capacity. Motorcycle taxis will be permitted to carry passengers.
• Physical meetings, events, and gatherings will not be permitted.
• Gyms and recreational centers will remain closed. All swimming pools will be closed except for those at hotels hosting tested guests. Only individual sports will be permitted from 05:00 to 09:00.
• Restaurants and cafés will only provide take-away service. All bars will remain closed.
• Places of worship will remain closed.

From 08 February 2021 until 22 February 2021, the following measures will be in effect in all other areas of Rwanda (outside of Kigali): 

• Movements will be prohibited between 19:00 and 04:00.
• Movement between districts will be prohibited.
• Schools will continue operating with appropriate COVID-19 prevention measures.
• Places of worship will remain closed.
• All social gatherings will be prohibited.
• Public transportation, including motorcycle taxis, will continue operating.
• All bars will remain closed.
• Public gyms and swimming pools will be restricted from the public with the exception of tested guests staying at hotels.

Updated procedures for arrival to Rwanda from 08 February 2021:

• Kigali International Airport (KGL) in Kigali will remain open.
• Arriving passengers must present a negative PCR Covid-19 test result taken within 72 hours of first departure to Rwanda.
• All arriving passengers must self-quarantine for 7 days and take a PCR Covid-19 test at the end Rwanof this period.

Covid-19: Mozambique introduces new mitigation measures! [update]

update (09 March 2021): Mozambique's President Filipe Nyusi on 04 March 2021 extended the mitigation measures to combat COVID-19 for an additional 30 days. Schools are allowed to reopen and the 14 teams that compete in the Mozambique's national football championship are allowed to resume training, but all the other restrictions announced in previous government decree remain in force.

Mozambique's President Filipe Nyusi announced new mitigation measures to combat the spread of Covid-19 on 04 February 2021. The new regulations are valid from today (05 February 2021) until 07 March 2021. According to Nyusi's televised address, prior measures are generally maintained, with a number of additional or more stringent measures being introduced, including the following travel/tourism-related regulations:

• A curfew every night between 21:00 to 04:00 in the Greater Maputo Area (Maputo, Matola, Marracuene, and Boane)
• Commercial establishments are allowed to be open from 09:00 - 19:00 (Monday – Saturday) and 09:00 - 16:00 (Sunday). Restaurants may remain open until 20:00 every day.
• The sale of alcoholic beverages from stalls is prohibited.
• Private events are limited to a maximum of 20 people.
• Public and private sector establishments will be held responsible for non-compliance with safety measures.
• Recreational and leisure sports and games are prohibited.
• The use of a clear plastic face shield does not replace the use of a facemask.

These measures are in addition to the prior measures already in place, some of which include:

• All persons displaying respiratory symptoms or fever must stay home.
• All incoming travellers must present a negative test for Covid-19.
• Discos, bars etc. selling alcoholic beverages remain closed.
• The sale of alcoholic beverages by liquor stores, supermarkets etc. is only allowed between 08:00 and 13:00 from Monday to Saturday.
• Cultural and recreational activities in cinemas, theatres, museums, galleries, cultural centers and catering establishments are suspended.
• Gyms, swimming pools and other sports venues dedicated to the practice of physical exercises remain closed.
• The beaches in Mozambique are closed for purposes of physical and leisure activities; however, this restriction does not apply to sidewalks, pedestrian zones and boardwalks adjacent to beaches.

Western Cape: Five new farms in the Cape Winelands awarded Conservation Champion status!

WWF South Africa has announced that five new farms in the Cape Winelands in South Africa's Western Cape have been awarded Conservation Champion status in the past six months. Conservation Champion farms are committed to regenerative farming practices, including conserving natural systems and biodiversity on their land and optimal water and energy efficiency.  

The five farms to have joined the programme are: 

• Anthonij Rupert Wyne (Franschhoek)
• Journey’s End Vineyards (Somerset West)
• Mooiplaas (Stellenbosch)
• Nederburg Wines (Paarl)
• Tierhoek (Robertson)

WWF South Africa supports Conservation Champion farms in their environmental efforts by co-developing detailed environmental management plans, setting tangible targets and helping them to prioritise actions to address their most pressing envionmental risks. In exchange for their commitment to nature and adhering to WWF's high standards, the Conservation Champions can use the distinctive sugarbird and protea logo on their wine bottles so consumers can make an informed choice to support our environmental wine leaders.

WWF South Africa's Conservation Champion programme was initiated in 2004 and was originally called the Biodiversity and Wine Initiative (BWI). A total of 45 Conservation Champion farms are currently part of the the programme.

Zimbabwe: Gonarezhou National Park reopens at the end of February 2021!

update (26 February 2021): Gonarezhou National Park will be open from 01 March 2021!

Gonarezhou National Park in south-eastern Zimbabwe is closed since 10 January 2021 and is set to reopen the end of February 2021. During the temporary closure, the National Park's infrastructure team addresses maintenance issues in the camps. The short closure of Gonarezhou National Park to tourism also allows the roads a rest over traditionally the wettest months of the year in Zimbabwe.
The camps in Gonarezhou National Park (Mananga Camps, Chinguli and Chilojo Bushcamp) all closed at the end of November 2020 as usual and are scheduled to reopen again at the start of April 2021.
Gonarezhou National Park is located in the South-East Lowveld in the Masvingo Province, south of Chimanimani along the border with Mozambique. It covers an area of just more than 5 000 km² and is home to 400 species of birds, 89 species of mammals, 61 species of small mammals and insectivores as weel as to 50 species of fish. Zimbabwe's second largest National Park after Hwange National Park forms part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park, a peace park that links it with Kruger National Park in South Africa and Limpopo National Park in Mozambique.

Namibia: Current Covid-19 regulations remain in place!

Namibia's President Dr. Hage G. Geingob, announced during the 24th Covid-19 public briefing on the national response measures that the current regulations, which are effective since 13 January 2021 (23rd Covid-19 public briefing on the national response measures and preparedness), will be maintained and extended for a period of 21 days, from 04 February 2021 to 24 February 2021. With respect to the restriction of movement, curfew hours will be adjusted to begin at 22:00 and end at 05:00, daily.

South Africa: Intercity bus service "Greyhound" closes operations!

South African intercity bus service Greyhound, which has been in operations for the last 37 years, just announced that it will cease operations. The last day of operation will be 14 February 2021. All passengers of Greyhound and Citiliner, a division of Greyhound, who have tickets booked for services after this date will be refunded in full. For assistance with receiving refunds, customers are advised to contact Greyhound/Citiliner.
Greyhound offers an scheduled intercity bus service covering all major cities in South Africa as well as passenger transport operations between South Africa and Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

Kruger National Park: SANParks has released an update on the current weather conditions! [update]

update (05 March 2021): South African National Parks (SANParks) has released updates on the weather and bridge/road conditions in Kruger National Park:

• Sirheni Bush Camp is now accessible. The bridge has again been restored after having being washed away. (05 March 2021; 08:50)

update (04 March 2021): South African National Parks (SANParks) has released updates on the weather and bridge/road conditions in Kruger National Park:

• All the camps in Kruger National Park are accessible but some gravel roads still closed.
• Gravel roads around Punda Maria still closed.
• Gravel roads around Pafuri still closed except for access to the picnic site and part of the Nyala drive.
• Talamati - all roads are open.
• Biyamiti S139 and S25 closed. Access only via H5 and S26.
• S93 close to Olifants closed.
• S56 between Shingwezi and Sirheni closed.
• Sirheni access bridge washed away over the weekend. It is temporarily fixed and guests can access the camp. (03 March 2021; 17:47)
  

update (01 March 2021): South African National Parks (SANParks) has released updates on the weather and bridge/road conditions in Kruger National Park:

• The bridge to Sirheni camp at Shisha stream has washed away again.
  

update (21 February 2021): There is a section of the R538 road leading to Kruger National Park's Paul Kruger and Phebeni gates that is badly affected after the rains. Small vehicles and vehicles with caravans will have trouble passing through. Please use alternative gates to enter and exit Kruger National Park. (20 February 2021; 06:49)
Please note that the R538 is a national road that is not under South African National Parks' (SANParks) responsibility.

update (18 February 2021): South African National Parks (SANParks) has released updates on the weather and bridge/road conditions in Kruger National Park:

• The Sabie and Sand river low level bridges are open. The road from Skukuza day visitors to Rhino walking safaris is also open. (17 February 2021, 08:17)
  

update (15 February 2021): South African National Parks (SANParks) has released updates on the weather and bridge/road conditions in Kruger National Park: 

• Sand river low level bridge is flooded. Road closed from Skukuza day visitor site to Rhino walking safaris. Sabie river low level accessible for staff use. (15 February 2021, 08:21)

update (13 February 2021): South African National Parks (SANParks) has released updates on the weather and bridge/road conditions in Kruger National Park:  

• Crocodile Bridge has just opened. Park visitors should still plan to leave via Malelane gate.
• All gravel roads in east are closed including S25 Croc River Road. (13 February 2021, 07:46)
• All gravel roads have been closed due to rain in the following sections: Lower Sabie, Pretoriouskop, Tshokwane.
• Crocodile bridge: S25, S28, S130 closed (13 February 2021, 07:38)
• Crocodile Bridge is currently closed (13 February 2021, 04:40) due to flooding. Updates will be given re opening and accessibility of all the low water bridges as received.

update (09 February 2021): South African National Parks (SANParks) has released updates on the weather and bridge/road conditions in Kruger National Park:

• Sirheni Bushveld Camp is currently inaccessible, until further notice.
• The following roads are closed:
• H15
• S10
• S113
• S118
• S135
• S139
• S14
• S147
• S23
• S3
• S47
• S48
• S52
• S53
• S56
• S57
• S62
• S63
• S64
• S65
• S69
• S7
• S8
• S94

update (07 February 2021): South African National Parks (SANParks) has released updates on the weather and bridge/road conditions in Kruger National Park:

• Numbi gate is closed due to flooding. (issued 07 February 2021 - 10:00)

update (06 February 2021): South African National Parks (SANParks) has released updates on the weather and bridge/road conditions in Kruger National Park:

• Talamati will not be accessible today;  we are redirecting guests. (issued 06 February 2021 - 11:00)
• Phabeni Gate bridge is overflooded.
• Phabeni Gate closed.
• More water expected in Crocodile River, guests must please plan to leave via Malelane Gate. (issued 06 February 2021 - 11:00)
• Crocodile Bridge is now OPEN (issued 06 February 2021 - 08:00)
• Crocodile Bridge gate is closed, please use an alternate gate to enter and exit the park. (issued 06 Febriary 2021 - 06:00)

update (05 February 2021): South African National Parks (SANParks) has released updates on the weather and bridge/road conditions in Kruger National Park:

• Phabeni Bridge is cleared for now. It is safe to cross. SANPark will release an update if the situation changes.
• Sabie river low level bridge: river still flowing over bridge.  
• Tshokwane road closed from Skukuza day visitor site to Rhino Walking Safaris. (issued 05 February 2021 - 13:00)

• Sabie river low level bridge near Skukuza closed, Sand river open.
• The North is experiencing heavy rains. (issued 05 February 2021 - 08:00)

• RAIN ALERT - It's pouring around Pretoriuskop. Phabeni Bridge is overflowing and is closed. Nwaswitshaka River might overflow tomorrow morning. Raining hard for the last  hour in Pretoriuskop. The Phabeni River has gone over the bridge close to Phabeni gate again and vehicles will not be able to cross until the water level subsides and the debris has been cleared. (issued 04 February 2021 - 20:45)
  

South African National Parks (SANParks) has released an update on the weather conditions currently experienced in the Kruger National Park (KNP), as on Tuesday, 02 February 2021:

• All gravel roads within the Kruger National Park have been closed and are inaccessible due to the recent floods. This is done as a safety precaution, until further notice.
• Crocodile Bridge Gate is closed to day visitors. SANParks advises day visitors to use Malelane Gate as an alternative.
• Phabeni Gate has been reopened after the removal of debris.