By Staff Reporter
The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) says it does not require a certificate or proof of recent negative COVID-19 tests from its stakeholders visiting any of its offices or premises.
The announcement serves to correct misleading information that was contained in an internally generated notice and issued to clearing agents on the 6th of August, 2020. The statement under the heading NOTICE TO ALL CLEARING AGENTS TRANSPORTERS AND IMPORTERS – MEASURES TO CONTAIN THE RISE IN CASES OF COVID-19 INFECTIONS AT BORDER POSTS, gave an incorrect impression that all persons (clients and stakeholders) visiting ZIMRA premises were required to produce proof of having been recently tested for COVID-19.
ZIMRA Head Corporate Communications, Francis Chimanda said this was not the correct position; ZIMRA does not require proof of past or recent COVID-19 test results from stakeholders visiting any of its offices or premises.
“The correct position is that ZIMRA is aware that due to the positioning of our offices, inland and border stations, there is a need to remain vigilant in observing and practicing procedures that reduce the high risk of exposure to COVID-19.
“In the interest of safeguarding employees, clients and the public as directed by the guidelines from the World Health Organisation, the Ministry of Health and Childcare, ZIMRA is implementing measures to mitigate the likely impact and risks of this viral threat to operations and human life,” he said.
He said current measures at the country’s border posts and stations in instances of expected or suspected exposure to COVID-19 include but are not limited to: testing contacts of all suspected COVID-19 cases; immediate closure and subsequent disinfection of offices, inland and border stations that might be at risk; re-opening of disinfected offices is done with the assistance and guidance of the relevant local medical authorities; where practical ZIMRA stations and offices maintain critical skeleton staff.
Staff is also being provided with appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and sanitizers; and services are, as much as possible, being offered to clients or agents via electronic means.
