by Grace Chekai

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has urged Zimbabweans to stay at home and adhere to the 21-day lockdown and travel restrictions imposed by Government during the upcoming Easter Holiday as a continued measure to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

Posting on its Twitter handle, ZRP stressed that, “The Zimbabwe Republic Police is urging all Zimbabweans to observe the Easter Holiday whilst at home with a view of containing the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

“No movement of vehicles or people will be allowed on the country's roads except those with exemptions.

“Those with the exemptions should also act responsibly and avoid abusing this privilege. Let us have zero road traffic accidents in terms of deaths, injury and the recorded figures of collisions," tweeted ZRP.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa and other many countries around the world, imposed lockdowns and travel restrictions as part of a wide range of preventive measures aimed at curbing the spread of the highly infectious disease.

Government has now embarked on efforts to cushion those who were affected by the 21-day lockdown. The informal traders together with artists are going to be given ZWL 600 once-off payment to cushion them during this lockdown. Health professionals will be given risk allowance.

To date, Zimbabwe has 11 confirmed COVID-19 infections including three deaths.

The Ministry of Health and Child Care continues to encourage people to wash their hands regularly with water and soap and to practise social distancing especially with those who will be exhibiting flu-like symptoms.