Congo Helping Hands, Inc.

Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Kinshasa, DRC (August 11, 2020)

 
Location: Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
 
Event: COVID-19 Update & DRC Entry / Exit Requirements
 
State of Emergency in DRC
The government of the DRC is slowly relaxing the health-related State of Emergency that was put in place March 24 to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Shops, banks, restaurants, bars, and public transport reopened. Schools and universities may reopen. Airports, ports, borders, and places of worship are expected to reopen on August 15.
 
Masks are still required in public spaces. There are reports of police enforcing this requirement in Kinshasa. 
 
DRC Entry and Exit Requirements
Commercial passenger flights resume August 15. DRC is expected to require all travelers to present a negative COVID-19 test result from the prior 72 hours to board a plane to the DRC and to depart the DRC. Negative COVID-19 test results may also be required for domestic travel so check with your airline for requirements. Continue to monitor DRC media and our website on COVID-19 as information for travelers becomes available. We expect the government to announce measures in the coming days but travelers should make plans now to travel with proof of a negative COVID-19 test.
Check with your airline about COVID-19 safety measures, testing requirements, and requirements at your country of transfer and final destination. Visit the Department of Homeland Security website for information on U.S. arrival restrictions. 
Travelers must follow safety protocols at all DRC airports which include: use of masks, temperature checks, social distancing, use of disinfectant, and the completion of health forms. 
U.S. citizens should travel with proof of health and medical evacuation insurance. Check with your medical evacuation insurance company on options should you fall ill in the DRC.