In a sweeping set of measures Sunday, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said visas of citizens from high-risk countries, including the United States, have been revoked to contain the coronavirus epidemic. Although South Africa has seen only 61 cases of the coronavirus, and no deaths so far, according to officials, this visa shutdown appeared to be aimed at work visas.…
The Republic of Ghana has instituted a stringent travel restriction in its bid to control the Coronavirus in the country. Ghana has confirmed at least six cases. According to a new travel advisory released by the country’s Information Ministry, any traveller, except for Ghanaian citizens and persons with Ghana residence permits, who within 14 days…
As the novel coronavirus rages through the world and spreads rapidly in the U.S., Africa is the least-affected continent at the moment, with less than 300 reported cases in roughly half of its 54 countries so far. A number of media outlets have reacted with a confounded tone, surprised that Africa does not have more…
Seychelles on Monday announced it is temporarily closing down the island nation to cruise ships, a decision taken to protect the population from the threat of the COVID-19 virus but one that will also carry economic reverberations. Top government officials met on Monday to discuss the imminent arrival of a new cruise ship — the Norwegian Spirit — and…
Kenya halted the entry of foreigners from countries that have confirmed coronavirus cases and suspended schools in a bid to reduce the risk of contagion within the East African country. “Only Kenyan citizens and any foreigners with valid residence permits will be allowed to come in provided they proceed on self-quarantine or to a government…
Transnet Ports Authority (TNPA) has confirmed that two cruise liners are being held “off port limits” following one crew member displaying COVID-19 symptoms (the suspected case has yet to be confirmed). TNPA said in a press statement that it was the first suspected case of COVID-19 in a South African seaport. The crew member had…
SA Express will suspend operations from today (18 March 2020) until further notice. This is in light of “recent adverse developments”, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the airline said in a brief statement. This decision will impact both SA Express customers and staff in the following manner: • All customers will be accommodated…
Delta will suspend all flights out of Johannesburg from March 24. Agents queried the flights when they were unable to book past March 24 on the system. Jimmy Eichelgruen, director of sales in the Africa, Middle East & Indian Sub-Continent, confirmed the news to eTNW, adding that a statement would be released later today. The…
SAA has scaled down capacity in response to the low demand for air travel following travel disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. South Africa’s national carrier has reviewed its flight schedule and has decided to operate flights only under circumstances where its load factors and other business considerations weigh in favour of scheduling flights. However…