Ethiopia Closes Borders to Prevent Spread of COVID19 (March 23, 2020)

Prime Minister Dr Abiy Ahmed has announced the closure of all Ethiopia’s borders to prevent the spread of coronavirus (COVID19).

He said the National Defence Forces were ordered to halt as of today the movement of people along all borders, with the exception of incoming essential goods to the country.

The Prime Minister further said security sector will begin to reinforce measures taken by the government to cease large gatherings and maintain social distancing.

He also called on government institutions, including political parties, to adhere to social distancing and preventive measures when convening meetings.

The Prime Minister further urged government institutions to facilitate working from home options and public transport to cease overcrowding.

The government has also the allocated 5 billion birr to combat the spread of the virus, the Prime Minister indicated.

In a related development, the Ministry of Health said two Japanese nationals, who have tested positive for COVID-19 in Ethiopia, have left for their country.

The two Japanese are among the 11 confirmed cases in Ethiopia.