Zimbabwe declares coronavirus a national disaster, bans public gatherings for next 60 days

Zimbabwe today declared the coronavirus pandemic a national disaster and has banned public gatherings of more than 100 people for the next 60 days.

It also postponed national independence celebrations scheduled for 18 April and the country’s prime trade show, the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair which was set for 21-25 April, as well as all sporting events.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa said resources that were meant for these national events will now be re-directed to strengthening the fight against the coronavirus pandemic and mitigating drought.

Zimbabwe is also discouraging unnecessary travel by government officials outside the country and non-essential travel to affected countries.

The ban on public gatherings of more than 100 people will affect several churches that hold massive Easter gatherings, will also affect proposed mass demonstrations by opposition political parties, as well as weddings.