Ethiopia takes additional measures to halt spread of COVID-19

On Mar 27, 2020 1,181

Addis Ababa, March 27, 2020 (FBC) – Prime Minister Dr Abiy Ahmed has announced additional measures to halt the spread of coronavirus virus (COVID-19).

The following are the additional key measures taken by Government:

1. As of this afternoon, recent arrivals to Addis Ababa who cannot afford to be quarantined in the various hotels identified, will be transferred to Addis Ababa Science and Technology University (AASTU) for the 15 days mandatory quarantine period upon arrival.

2. Two-week extension of school closures as of today, including higher learning institutions.

3. Strict adherence to social distancing protocols is expected within market areas and religious establishments. The Federal Government has been granted a constitutional mandate to halt religious gatherings in times of grave national emergencies. But before enacting these constitutional measures, it once again appeals to all citizens that they are practicing social distancing protocols.

4. Calls upon all retired and in-training medical professionals to prepare for national duty if the situation warrants such extra support.

5. More than 134 facilities have been identified for quarantine, isolation and treatment but with varying levels of equipment. Therefore, the government calls upon all citizens to strengthen the efforts of the national resource mobilization committee which is in the process of finding materials like beds, mattresses, bed sheets, ventilators and other medical and non-medical supplies.

6. The macro-economic sub-committee has been undertaking dialogue with key industry stakeholders in various sectors to craft a way forward in safeguarding the economy. As a result, the following measures will also be undertaken to stabilize the economy:

Tax exemption for the import of materials and equipment to be used in the prevention and containment of COVID-19.
National Bank of Ethiopia to avail 15 billion birr liquidity for private banks to enable them to provide debt relief and additional loans to their customers in need.
Banks to avail foreign currency for importers primarily importing goods and input materials for the prevention of COVID-19.
Commercial Bank of Ethiopia to increase the amount of money individuals can transfer through mobile banking, to limit in-person cash handling
Removal of the minimum price set by the National Bank of Ethiopia on the horticulture sector for flower exports
The Ministry of Revenue to expedite VAT returns to support companies with cash flows
The Ministry of Trade and Industry to continue strengthening the measures it is undertaking to control price increments and supply shortages of consumer goods