By Monica Mutsvangwa
Cabinet received an update on the COVID-19 Outbreak, which was presented by the Minister of Defence and War Veterans Affairs as Chairman of the Inter-Ministerial Task Force on the COVID-19 Outbreak.
Cabinet was informed that as of 12 March, 2021 Zimbabweâs cumulative COVID-19 cases stood at 36 423, with 33 996 recoveries and 1 496 deaths.
The recovery rate is 93%, with 34 722 cases attributed to local transmission.
There are 931 active cases, and the cumulative number of infected Health Care Workers has risen from 4 008 to 4 210 with 18 deaths.
Cabinet noted that preparations for the opening of schools have reached an advanced stage with examinations classes having as opened scheduled on 15 March 2021.
Non-examination classes will open on 22 March 2021 as scheduled. Standard operating Procedures are being emphasized, particularly regarding the availability of potable water at every school.
In order to utilize the existing capacity as agreed at the last Meeting, Cabinet resolved that Stage Two of Phase One of the vaccination roll-out will include tobacco merchants and their workers, teachers and hospitality industry workers, and this should commence immediately.
Cabinet also agreed that all sporting activities will now resume and observe Standard Operating Procedures.
Restaurants are now allowed to open for sit-ins at 50% sitting capacity, under strict adherence to COVID-19 guidelines.
Those found breaking the restrictions will be closed immediately.
