After a surge in COVID-19 cases over the past few months, Zimbabwe has re-established pandemic restrictions. There is now a nation wide curfew, as well as shutting down of non-essential businesses for one month. These restrictions were passed as an attempt to reduce the spread and lower the number of infections. Large gatherings have also been banned, and the reopening of schools has been delayed. The Vice-president and health minister, Constantino Chiwenga, has announced that, “Only essential services are to remain open such as hospitals, pharmacies and supermarkets, with only essential staff allowed to come to work.” These services are to function with reduced hours and enforce safety regulations.
If Zimbabwe is unable to manage the rising COVID cases, then the pandemic will continue to affect the functioning of the government, especially the economy. Most citizens are still living in poverty, and not working or receiving any money will further the decrease in the economy. Recently, a tropical storm also swept through Zimbabwe, which has raised many fears. The rainy season can also lead to more diarrhoeal diseases spreading in the country. The restrictions and lockdown should help deter the spread of diseases, especially COVID, which has run rampant in the country for months. Hopefully with the re-imposed safety guidelines, numbers will decrease, and Zimbabwe can focus on rebuilding their economy.
Intergovernmental organizations, especially the United Nations, have tried to send humanitarian aid to the citizens of Zimbabwe that are starving or sick. Their help may be essential to helping Zimbabwe fight against the pandemic and improve the quality of life for their citizens.