Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi has approved lifting of international travel restrictions in a phased manner, starting from next week.

Government spokesperson Andrew Sesinyi on Friday said air travel will resume on Nov. 9 at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone, Kasane International Airport, and Maun International Airport before ground crossing resume on Dec. 1.

He said road crossings will be allowed at the country’s commercial ports of entry which include Kazungula Road, Kazungula Ferry, Ngoma, Ramakgwebana, Martins Drift, Ramatlabana, Tlokweng, Mamuno, Pioneer, and Mohembo.

“The remaining points of entry will be considered in due course subject to disease burden and harmonization with other neighboring countries,” said Sesinyi.

According to Sesinyi, all arriving travelers will be expected to present a valid 72-hour negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction result from time of departure and screened for COVID-19 symptoms upon entry.

Sesinyi further said the traveler will be required to remain in contact with the local health authority for a period of 14 days doing self-monitoring.

More Southern Africa countries are expected to ease travel restrictions, ahead of the December festive season to allow families to travel for holidays

Read more from Africa CGTN