Zimbabwe’s Emmerson Mnangagwa Bans Public gatherings Due to Coronavirus

The ban includes weddings, church gathering, sporting events and national celebrations until a review in conducted due course.

The move comes after reports that a U.K. tourist, who visited Victoria Falls last week, tested positive for the virus known as COVID-19.

“Government has decided to postpone, curtail or cancel public events, gathering and activities. In that respect, government has postponed the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), all National Independence Celebrations previously planned,” Mnangagwa said.

Mnangagwa added that resources originally earmarked for events would be redirected toward strengthening defenses against the coronavirus.

The president also declared the pandemic a national disaster, a move that would allow the government to mobilize resources.

While Zimbabwean borders remain open, all crossing points, or undesignated crossing ports, would be closed.