Please note this is only provisional information based on the information our in country teams have been able to access.
Tunis transport updates 20 August-10 September
Current cases 10.9.21: 681664
Current deaths 10.9.21: 24086
Tunis
Government initiatives
3.9.21. Residents can travel for free on the 4 September to get to vaccine centre. A text message must be shown to officials with the purpose of the journey. Free transport will be from 8 am to 3 pm.
28.8.21. 70 buses have been mobilised to ensure the transport of people to vaccination centres in greater Tunis. These buses will transport those over the age of 40 for free and those between the ages of 15 and 17. Services from neighbourhoods to vaccine centres will be from 6.15-7 pm
20.8.21. Tunisia imposes a 10-day confinement period for unvaccinated travellers coming from abroad. A list of hotels adhering to compulsory confinement will be published later. Those who have been vaccinated will not be subject to the confinement period.
http://www.rtci.tn/tunisie-impose-confinement-obligatoire-10-jours-les-arrivants-vaccines/
Tunis transport updates 5 August-19 August
Current cases 19.8.21: 632328
Current deaths 19.8.21: 22304
Government initiatives
19.8. The curfew hours are now from 0:00 until 5 am throughout Tunisia. Public and private gatherings are prohibited except for those who are vaccinated. Restaurants will have to remove their chairs and close at 10pm. All travellers must present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours. Those who are fully vaccinated will not have to quarantine, but those who are not will have to quarantine for 10 days.
15.8. There is free transport for those who are being vaccinated on the 15 August 2021.
Links
https://www.aa.com.tr/fr/afrique/tunisie-covid-19-all%C3%A8gement-du-couvre-feu-/2338947
Tunis transport updates 21 July to 4 August
Current cases 4.8.21: 599594
Current deaths 4.8.21. 20410
Government initiatives
2.8.21. From the 1 August 21 the confinement period during weekends has been cancelled. Travel within central Tunis is authorised, but it is prohibited to enter or exit Tunis, except if you have a negative PCR test or it is an emergency. The curfew period is from 10pm until 5 am – it is prohibited to drive during these hours. Restaurants and cafés need to close at 7 pm. All events and public and private gatherings are prohibited
26.7.21. President Kais Saied imposes a night curfew from the 26 July to the 27 August from 7 pm to 6 am. The movement of people and vehicles between towns is prohibited during these times, except for emergencies or essential travel.
26.7.21. The president of Tunisia, Kais Saied declares a state of emergency and dismisses the prime minister Hichem Mechichi. This was after a national demonstration called the July 25 movement.
Other
28.7.21 Transtu have announced that there will be additional services on all light metro lines
from the 26th July 21. This is a response to the increased demand before curfew hours.
Links
https://lepetitjournal.com/tunis/sante/covid-19-nouvelles-mesures-sanitaires-1er-aout-2021-318022
Cape Town 20 August-10 September
Current cases (10.9.21): 2546762
Current deaths (10.9.21): 84608
Government initiatives
8.9.21. The transport deputy minister Sindisiwe Chikunda says that Covid-19 has had a devastating impact on the transport sector, especially PRASA (Passenger rail agency of South Africa). This is also due to a prolonged period when rail services were not running, and the infrastructure was ruined by criminals, as well as illegal occupancy on the rails. Chikunda said that they are now at hard work replacing infrastructure.
1.9.21. The new Cape Town mayoral committee member responsible for transport, Roberto Quintas, says that they are working with PRASA (Passenger Rail agency of South Africa) to assist them in fixing the train service. Quintas is also keen for the Myciti N2 Express service to be running again. Moreover, Quintas also has a goal of fixing potholes in Cape Town’s roads
Other
7.9.21.Data has been collected on the blue dot taxi service in Cape Town. The safety project has reported 5000 speeding incidents, and 12000 harsh driving incidents out of 700 taxis. Some of the incidents were related to dangerous stopping, and unsafe lane changes, but also the lack of mask use, smoking in taxis, driving under the influence or harassment, assault or theft.
Links
Cape Town 5-19 August 21.
Current cases 19.8.21: 2652652
Current deaths 19.8.21: 78694
Government initiatives
18.8.21. Residents in Cape Town are encouraged to make use of the Red Dot taxi service to get to vaccine clinics. The service was initially limited to health workers, but is not for those eligible for the vaccine in all areas of Western Cape, including those who are 35 years old or older.
11.8.21. The committee of transport and public works have called for fairness to be made in the allocation of routes to avoid violent tensions in the taxi industry. The Blue dot taxi project is available for 9 months, will cost R150 million and is available to less than 10% of the available taxi fleet.
6.8.21. Cata and Codeta taxis have been permitted to operate on Bellville rank again. The two taxi organisations had signed a peace agreement. The loading lanes at the Bellville public transport interchange will be reopened, but the Paarl loading lane will be closed.
Other
19.8.21. A speaker at an event called Women on Farms project said that a R350 Covid Grant a month is not sufficient to live on, e.g., to buy enough groceries.
11.8.21. The blue dot and red dot taxi services have received mixed reactions. Questions have been asked regarding whether it is sustainable and implementable on a larger scale. Some taxi operators have felt excluded as it was only a small sample of taxi operators that were included.
Links
https://www.groundup.org.za/article/r350-month-covid-grant-too-low-say-speakers-women-farms-meeting/
Cape Town
Cape Town 21 July-4 August
Current cases 4.8.21: 2484009
Current deaths 4.8.21. 73415
Government initiatives
23.7.21. The Western Cape Transport minister closes the taxi route (route 97) between Paarl and Bellville due to taxi violence that has claimed the lives of 70 people in 2021.
21.7.21. The taxi violence in Cape Town has left many stranded without being able to go to work. Commuters fear for their lives as the conflict between CATA and CODETA (taxi associations) fails to resolve. The Premier of Western Cape says that law enforcement vehicles have been deployed to help commuters and he has also suggested that the army should assist commuters. Taxi drivers are also afraid they will get killed, and some have been receiving threatening messages that they will get shot.
25.7.21. Following the closure of the Belleville to Paarl taxi route, Golden Arrow will deploy more buses. The MEC for Transport and Public works says that the Metrorail services will run between the two stations from the 26 July 2021.
Other
29.7.21. The transport crisis in Cape Town has left people unable to get to clinics, schools and work. At Cape Town high school absenteeism has been at 40%. Research consultant Gail Jennings says that the rail network is not as congested as road transport, and can carry a large amount of people at once. However, one of the issues in Cape Town is that the rail network has several problems. Moreover, the infrastructure of Cape Town makes it difficult for people living in townships to reach the city centre. If people in townships were housed closer to work, they could potentially walk or cycle.
28.7.21. The taxi violence in Cape Town is not only affecting public transport, but it is also affected health clinics, as health staff cannot get to the clinics. Nyanga bus terminus is most affected – the area is deserted as soldiers and police are keeping an eye on the area
27.7.21. Public transport has somewhat stabilised after 14 days of disruption, even though CATA and CODETA (taxi associations) have not reached an agreement. The congress of South African students says many students have not been able to go to school during the closure of taxi routes. Many are dependent on mini buses, especially those residing in townships.
25.7.21. Following the closure of the Belleville to Paarl taxi route, Golden Arrow will deploy more buses.
23.7.21. The bus company Golden Arrow has said that they are now operating at 90% capacity after one of their drivers was shot.
Links
Abuja 20 August-10 September
Current cases 10.9.21: 198239
Current deaths 10.9.21: 2588
Government initiatives
7.9.21. Passengers who have been to India, Brazil and Turkey are not allowed to enter Nigeria, but this does not apply to Nigerian citizens or residents. Passengers must have taken a negative PCR test prior to departure (does not apply to passengers younger than 10). Passengers need to self-isolate for 7 days, and take a PCR test within 7 days of their arrival. Gatherings of 50 people outside of workplaces are not permitted. Places of workshop can hold services, subject to limitations. It is mandatory to wear facemasks in public places.
1.9.21. The Covid relief fund has paid N57 billion to more than 1 million people. Not all will be supported, as it is on a first come first serve basis. The payroll support scheme has benefitted 459, 334 people out of the initial 500, 000 target. There have been 293,336 beneficiaries of the artisan and transport scheme but the target was slightly higher (333,000)
Other
30.8.21. Residents in the federal capital have said that they prefer rail to road transport when travelling to Kaduna. This is both due to security concerns and avoiding accidents on the way.
30.8.21. Truck and bus drivers have started using cellutant technology. Tingg Proximity Pay to prevent the spread of covid, using this technology to facilitate payments between drivers and passengers.
Links
Abuja 5 August-19 August
Current cases 19.8.21: 50588
Current deaths 19.8.21. 2244
Government initiatives
8.8.21. The government in Nigeria announces the postponement of the second batch of the vaccine. They have not given a reason but said that it has been due to unforeseen circumstances. Meanwhile cases are going up due to the spread of the Delta variant.
Other
11.8.21. Stakeholders, who attended a meeting organised by the German Development Agency (GIZ) have called on the government to support micro, small and medium enterprises. The growth of Micro, small and medium enterprises, currently provides for 80 per cent of employment.
5.8.21. Some receivers of the Covid-19 grant for Transport workers (under the Micro, small and medium enterprises survival fund have not yet received the grant money they had been promised. Qualified applicants were expected to receive N30,000 – this includes e.g. uber drivers, keke na pep drivers (tricycle), okada drivers (motorbike), cart pushers, among others.
Links
https://punchng.com/covid-19-stakeholders-say-msmes-critical-to-economic-recovery/
21 July-4 August, Abuja
Current cases 4.8.21: 176011
Current deaths: 2167
Government initiatives
2.8.21. The federal capital territory minister has said that the use of electric vehicles for the city is a major plan. The long-term plan is to make Abuja one of the greenest cities in the country,
2.8.21. Nigeria receives 4 million doses of Moderna from the US government.
Other
24.7.21. The prices of rice and other cereals have doubled in a year. Nigeria’s food inflation reached 27 per cent in February 2021 which is the highest since 2006 (National Bureau of Statistics). Grains such as rice, maize, sorghum, and millet have risen by 44.4 and 117 per cents respectively. Major legumes and cereals in Nigeria rose approximately 98.85 and 99.9 per cent respectively.
Links
https://punchng.com/abuja-will-use-electric-vehicles-for-public-transportation-minister/
Transport report 12 June to 3 July 2021
South Africa
Total cases (3.7.2021): 2046311
Total deaths (3.7.2021): 61507
https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/country/south-africa/
Cape Town
Government regulations
30 June 2021. All schools will close on the 30th July according to lockdown level 4 regulations (grade R to 12) and will reopen on the 19th July. There is a curfew from 9 pm-4 am except for essential workers or emergencies. Public transport is not permitted during the curfew period. Interprovincial travel to and from Gauteng is prohibited. There is a 70% load capacity on public transport travelling 200 km. Restrictions on international air travel remain the same but there is an exception on the curfew for long distance flights. International air travel is restricted to OR Tambo, King Shaka, Cape Town, Lanseria, Kruger Mpumalanga international airports.
15.6.2021. The South African president announces South Africa’s move to Level 3. He warns the population that they could get infected by an asymptomatic person in a taxi for instance, or those who do not wear masks that cover their faces. New measures are put in place. A curfew will start at 10 am and end at 4 am. Restaurants, bars and fitness centres will need to close by 9 pm. All gatherings will be limited to 50 indoors, and 100 outdoors. When a venue is too small to accommodate social distancing, no more than 50% of the capacity of the venue may be used. The attendance of funerals may not exceed 50 people. The sale of alcohol will only be allowed from 10 am and 6 pm from Monday to Thursday. It is a criminal offence not to wear a face mask that always covers their mouth and nose in public spaces.
Other
25.6.2021. PRASA (The passenger rail agency in South Africa) says that there has been a 66% decrease in weekday train services in the province of Western Cape (equivalent of 293 fewer trains every day). Metrorail has lost 2/3rds of its passengers due to arson attacks. PRASA has been in conversation with the mayor and city officials regarding land occupation and illegal occupiers in Langa living on or near the railway line. The City said that they had urged PRASA to take action early.
23.6.2021. Compared to 2019 Cape Town commuter trains are running at 34 % capacity. Moreover five out of 12 trains that were operated by Metrorail in 2019 are no longer running according to PRASA. The central line that has offered cheap transport to the city’s poorest population is inoperable. 56 ha of railway line is covered by 7844 illegal dwellings and 1350 informal dwellings will have to be removed to make repairs for the central line. After four years of arson attacks PRASA had 44 trains left in Cape Town in 2019, but there were only 28 trains left in 2020. The plan is to double them by next year. R790 million has been allocated for station repairs over the next three year, and it is planned that a four-meter wall will be built along the central line to prevent vandalism and theft.
23.6.2021. PRASA has been criticised for having the same recovery plan than the previous year.
21.6.2021. Metrorail has stopped doing monthly tickets and many passengers find the train very expensive and will many delays.
19.6.2021. Teachers, cleaners, food handlers and other staff in school institutions will be vaccinated by the 8th July. Uber has offered 100.000 rides for free to get school staff vaccinated.
15.6.2021. Seventeen school children were in a vehicle in Cape Town that was hijacked but were left unharmed. The hijackers ran away when the police arrived.
14.6.2021 There have been 7 taxi related killings in the last week. 3 taxi operators were killed in Khayelitsha, and four people in taxis were killed in Manenburg and Duinefontein.
13.6. 2021. Bolt food is partnering with Pathway Cycles in Cape Town to encourage the use of electric bikes for food deliveries. Couriers earn the same fees as they would otherwise.
Links
https://ewn.co.za/2021/06/15/full-speech-ramaphosa-announces-sa-move-to-level-3-lockdown
https://ewn.co.za/2021/06/15/ct-pupils-unharmed-after-transport-vehicle-hijacked
Nigeria
Abuja
Total cases: 167 803
Total deaths: 2121
https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/country/nigeria
Government initiatives
3.7.2021. In 6 years, 15000 clips have been stolen from Kaduna-Abuja railway. The federal government will install anti-theft clips.
28.6.2021. Nigeria adds South Africa to their red list for travellers arriving in Nigeria.
24.6.2021. 2,099,568 people have been vaccinated with their first dose of the covid-19 vaccine in Nigeria and 1,005,234 have received their second dose.
15.6.2021. The federal government has begun negotiating Chinese loans to expand the railway service. The minister of finance, budget and national planning has admitted that the government exceeded its borrowing plans for 2021. He has blamed this on the COVID-19 pandemic and the fall in oil prices. The minister also said that the monthly revenue for the Abuja-Kaduna railway operation has increased from N70 to N350 million in May 2021.
Other
2.7.2021. In an article in the Premium Times, Joshua Olufemi, Aderemi Ojekunle,
Ode Uduu, Charles Mba reflect on the surging food and electricity prices since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. Farmers were having difficulty transporting and accessing farm inputs. The gap between food and non-food inflation has widened from 5.47% in Feb 2020 to 10.28% in March 2021. The covid-19 lockdown restricted the movement of goods and food across the country. Nigerians also witnessed an average of 66.8% food price increase from February 2020 until March 2021 when a survey was conducted. Respondents in a survey conducted over 13 states attributed 69% of reasons for food price increases to covid-19 causes, including e.g., lockdown and border closure
2.7.2021. The Managing Director of Finchglow Travels and former President of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), Bankole Bernard wants to reduce the price of Covid-19 testing in Nigeria. He does not agree with the ban on travellers from South Africa, and suggests that protective measures should be put in place instead
30.6.2021. Plentywaka, a transportation technology company has partnered with GUO transport services limited. They will bring technology and marketing together and have the app Plentywaka. Guo transport services was founded in 1980, and is one of the largest providers of intercity and interstate transportation with more than 200 destinations across Nigeria.
20.6.2021. Fares in Nigeria have gone up on average since May 2020. A bus journey has increased by 79.39% and the ticket price is now N399.06. It was N222.46 in May 2020. Abuja is among the states with the highest bus fares N4, 600.47, which are similarly high in Lagos (N 3570.64) and Sokoto state (N 3.370.24). Air travel has also increased. On specified routes it the ticket price has increased by 0.39% month-on month and by 18.90% year-on-year. Motorbike fares have also increased – 2.3% month-on-month, and 85.83% year-on-year in May 2021. In a year the prices have gone up from N152.11 in May 2020 to N282.67 N152.11 in May 2021. Abuja, however, does not figure as one of the states with the highest cost of motorbike fares. In Abuja FCT the price is N169.17 and Adamawa (N100.08) and Katsina (N165.40)
Links
https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/471100-covid-19-nigerians-suffer-food-price-surges-amidst-dwindling-income.html
Tunisia
Current cases: 438945
Current deaths: 15261
https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/country/tunisia
Tunis
Government initiatives:
1.7.2021. New health measures are introduced in Tunisia. There is a curfew from 8 pm to 5 am throughout Tunisia. All public events such as parties, cultural events, conferences and weddings are banned. It is also prohibited to use the inside areas of restaurants and cafés. Prayers are suspended. Shopping centres are limited to 30% capacity. In the governates of Tunis, the governor can decide to make targeted containment measures at the delegation level to isolate clusters, but also certain neighbourhoods. This can include a ban on entering and leaving the governate. This can also include the reduction of shops and restaurants if necessary. In Tunisia, travellers who are not wearing a mask can get a fine of 60 Tunisian dinars. It is strongly advised that travellers have completed their Covid-19 vaccinations before travelling to Tunisia. Those who are unvaccinated over 12 are required to show a PCR test that is conducted within 72 hours prior to travelling. Travellers are required to self-isolate for 7 days.
26.6. Tunisia is added to the British government’s red list.
25.6.2021. General confinement is announced in Manouba, Kef and Tataounine. This will only affect areas with 400 cases per 100.000 inhabitants
24.6.2021. The scientific committee in Tunisia have announced that there will be general confinement in several governates and that vaccinations will be intensified within these regions.
Other
3.7.2021. After announcing new departure and arrival times due to the curfew, Transtu decided also to educate its passengers on the need to always buy a ticket – and not jump on the train without a ticket. Transtu has experienced 267 incidents with theft of equipment and 554 cases of people throwing stones in 2020. These riots resulted in a reduction in train times and a falling number of passengers.
Links
https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/red-list-tunsia-haiti-travel-b1871986.html
https://lepetitjournal.com/tunis/actualites/covid-19-renforcement-mesures-sanitaires-316163
South Africa
Cape Town
23-11 June 2021
Current cases (11.6.2021): 1730106
Current deaths (11.6.2021): 57592
Government initiatives
3.6.2021. Western Cape MEC Daylin Mitchell will meet taxi leaders after several days of protests in Nyanga. On Wednesday seven vehicles were torched during peak hours, and a Golden Arrow bus was stoned the previous week. He has threatened to close the ranks and routes affected by the protests if it does not end.
1.6.2021. The mayor of Cape Town has said that transport infrastructure and the maintenance of the road network will be a top priority for the 2021/22 financial year. They will roll out the phase two of the MiCity bus service to Mitchell’s plain
24.5.2021. Daylin Mitchell has been appointed as a new MEC for transport and public works in Cape Town
24.5.2021. The transport minister (Fikile Mbalula) has pointed out that the key challenges for PRASA (Passenger rail agency of South Africa include theft of rail infrastructure, leadership instability and lack of critical skills. He said that illicit vandalism of rail infrastructure (copper and steal) had increased during lockdown.
Other
7.6.2021. Naspers Foundry invests R24 million in a Transport Startup – WhereIsMyTransport. The company WhereIsMyTransport specialises in digital maps of informal routes.
Links
https://ewn.co.za/2021/05/24/premier-winde-appoints-daylin-mitchell-as-wc-s-new-transport-mec
Nigeria, Abuja, 23 May- 11 June
Current cases (11.6.2021): 1504
Current deaths (11.6.2021): 2117
Government initiatives
28.5.2021. The federal government has released a list of 132 Nigerian travellers who have breached the health regulation 2021 and have not quarantined after travelling to high-risk countries.
Other
11.6.2021. The bus-hailing business Plentywaka partners with the interstate bus company GUO transport to expand transport offerings. The partnership will involve passengers to be able to book GUO tickets on Plentywaka’s app.
31.5.2021. The cost of an average bus fare has gone up by 72.6% year-on-year by April 2021 and the price is now on average N386.1. Motorbike fares were N148.22 in April 2020 and N276.3 in April 2021
25.5.2021. After the lockdown has been lifted in regard to economic activity, road transport has been declining. According to Isaac Anyaougu this is largely due to insecurities that are felt by people when travelling (e.g. fear of kidnappers). The national bureau of statistics released data for the first quarter of 2021 that shows a -23.75% decline in road transport GDP.
Tunisia, Tunis.
23.6 May-11 June:
Current deaths: 13.365
Overall cases (11.6.21): 364819
Government initiatives
9.6.2021. The sacked president of the National Authority for the Fight against Corruption, Imed Boukhr has said that 20.000 doses of the AstraZenica vaccine have expired in Tunisia. This, however, is not uncommon, as other countries, such as Canada, have had the expiry date extended.
7.6.2021. Until the 27 June 2021 travelling between different regions of Tunisia is authorised, but compulsory confinement is expected in regions experiencing high levels of infections-
1.6.2021. Since the 1 June 2021 travellers (except children) need to have a PCR test done 72 hours before boarding a plane. They must isolate 7 days after entering Tunisia. Travellers also need to sign a health form and a commitment form. Travellers who have had the virus 6 weeks prior to travelling (and have a certificate for this) as well as vaccinated travellers who can show a QR code are exempt from this.
Other
29.5.2021. Transport prices are set to up and will be revealed soon.
28.5.2021. In an article in Gnet.tn it is reported how there has been a big increase in cycling during the pandemic, both amongst men and women. They join a Facebook group and then join groups of various levels – some for leisure, and some for work. Some took advantage of the travel ban during Ramadan to cycle when the roads were empty.
Links
South Africa
Cape Town
8.5.-22.5.2021
Current cases (22 May 2021): 39.369
Current deaths (22 May 2021): 55.772
Government initiatives
8.5.2021. The chairperson for transport and public works ,Daylin Mitchell, says that the problems that are experienced by Metrorail are crippling the service. The week when he announced this, Metroline trains had been suspended due to signal failure. The transport minister Fikile Mbabula recently said that PRASA was undertaking a rail infrastructure upgrade (R 1.8 billion and 2 billion). United National Transport union said they were concerned about the situation, both for commuters and transport workers.
Other
22.5.2021. A new blue dot taxi service has started in Cape Town which aims to reward taxi drivers for their improved driving and service, and reducing violence and illegal driving habits. A total of 1300 buses will be part of this new service. Taxi drivers and operators need to have documentation to participate in training for blue dot. The vehicles will have branded certificates, branding from the blue dot taxi service and be fitted with tracker.
21.5.2021. Informal settlements in Cape Town have been affected by rain, which has made it more difficult for commuters to get to work.
11.5.2021. Transport authorities as well as Golden Arrow bus services are carrying out safety measures to ensure safety for passengers. This will involve CCTV buttons and panic buttons.
https://ewn.co.za/2021/05/11/wc-mpls-briefed-on-measures-to-ensure-bus-commuter-safety
Nigeria, Abuja,
8-22 May 2021
Current cases (22.5.21): 165979
Current deaths (22.5.21): 2067
Government initiatives:
12.5.2021. The federal capital territory administration cancels Eid on the road leading to the airport. The administration has directed worshippers to hold Eid within the area of their neighbourhoods (Juma’et). All other Eid celebrations will be confined to homes, and not in public parks as these will be closed.
11.5.2021. The federal government has introduced new covid restrictions with an effect from midnight on the 12th of May. They have set limits on social gatherings, shut bars, and recreational centre. A curfew is implemented from 12 am to 4 am. The federal government is urging citizens to refrain from non-essential movement. There is a 7-day quarantine period. There are no limitations on inter and intrastate travel. but the service providers must ensure that PPE are used, and that physical distancing is observed. Faith based gatherings have been reduced to 50 percent attendance. Official engagements, conferences and meetings need to be held online.
Other
11.5.2021. Uber has raised its fares in Nigeria due to driver’s protests. They wanted a higher share of commissions. The firm has raised its fares in Abuja by 20% and in Lagos by 13%.
10.5.2021.Okada riders protested in a satellite town in Abuja and forced residents to stay inside, while they barricaded the Nyanya-Karshi dual carriageway. The protectors attacked vehicles but also innocent people. They were angry due to the death of two colleagues who were allegedly killed by a known drug dealer in the area. Residents in Karu, Jikwoyi, Kurudu, Orozo and Karshi have been trapped as motorbike operators were warned not to come to these areas
8.5.2021. The FCT Primary Health Care Board says it will end the current Covid-19 exercise on the 14th May. On the 6th May a total of 96,559 have been vaccinated.
Links
https://allafrica.com/stories/202105110108.html
https://guardian.ng/news/fcta-cancels-eid-prayers-at-abuja-airport-road-ground/
Tunisia, Tunis
8-22 May 2021
Current cases (22.5.2021): 334099
Current deaths (22.5.2021): 12182
Government initiatives
17. 5.2021. Activities resume and the general confinement is shortened. Schools reopen after students have been sent home for a month due to the Covid-19 crisis. Intercity transportation between regions resumed on the 14 May to alleviate the pressure of return trips.
16.5.2021. There is a curfew between 10 pm and 5 am every day. The government has also announced strengthening of measures to make people comply with the wearing of masks in enclosed spaces and on public transport. Governors have the possibly of isolating zones classified as high risk
10.5.2021.The national Transport Federation in Tunisia says that its affiliates in the irregular public transport sector (individual, collective, tourist hire and rural transport) have been authorised to work during the confinement period (May 9-16)
10.5.2021. The ministry of civil service has announced that the movement of employees without authorisation between the 8-16 May. Ministries, governorates, public establishments and other organisations are must draw up a list of employees who have to work face to face and notify them.
Other
9.5.2021. On the 9th of May there was general anger against the confinement measures. Traders, craftsmen and workers of all kinds joined a protest. In Tunis the central market was closed.
Links
South Africa
Total cases 7 May: 1592326
Total deaths 7 May: 54687
Government initiatives
7.3.2021.The transport minister briefed members of the parliament on mitigating the impact of covid 19 on the transport sector and argued that transport operators will continue to feel the impact of the pandemic in the near and medium term future. He said that the pandemic came at a time when the transport industry was already on a downward slide. It is assumed it will take up to 2 years because operations will return to normal.
3.5. 2021. Western Cape transport department condemn the killing of a taxi driver. There have been 25 murders since Jan 2021, and 11 attempted murders.
Other
5.5.2021. A train between Fish Hoek and Salt River was suspended due to equipment failure, and commuters are recommended to use other forms of alternative transport.
1.5.2021. Many of the stations on Cape Towns central line are vandalised, the windows in ticket offices are broken and concrete slabs have been removed. Although the line to Langa opened earlier this year, some people are refusing to move their shacks near or on the railway line. The Cape flats chairperson says that they are deeply concerned about how this affects those who rely on the trainline.
26.4.2021. The CATA (Cape Amalgamated taxi association president) Victor Wiwi has been shot and killed on the way home from Laingsburg when he was trying to resolve a transport issue.
26.4.2021. Taxi operators are accusing a large taxi association of extortion. Operators with valid permits claim that they are subject to shakedowns by marshals from the Congress of Democratic Taxi associations who illegally seize their vehicles.
Links
https://ewn.co.za/2021/05/07/mbalula-covid-19-affected-already-battling-transport-logistics-sectors
https://ewn.co.za/2021/04/26/taxing-the-taxis-cape-town-operators-accuse-codeta-of-extortion
Nigeria
22 April-7 May 2021.
Current cases total (7 May 2021) 165340
Current deaths total (7 May 2021) 2065
6.5.2021. The federal government says that private investors are planning to raise N102.75 million for the take-off of a national carrier in the country.
2.5.2021. The federal government bans travellers who have visited India, Brazil and Turkey in the last 14 days from entering Nigeria. This rule does not apply to passengers who have transited through these countries. The federal government threatens to impose a fine on airlines 3500 dollars for non-compliance, and passengers who are non-Nigerians will be denied entry. PCR tests need to be conducted within 72 hours and not 96 hours which was the case previously. Nigerians and those with a residency permit will have to isolate in a government approved facility for seven days. If they are tested positive passengers will be admitted in a government approved testing centre.
26.4.2021.The presidency says that 319,755 Nigerians have been supported through the Economic Sustainability Plan’s Survival Fund payroll support. The one time Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) grant of N50.000 will begin within the week which is expected to increase the number of beneficiaries under the Payroll Support Track.
23.4.2021. Airports have launched a shuttle service between Abuja and Kaduna in part to prevent banditry, and alleged attempts to attack the train appear to be growing. However, the cost is more expensive than the train and unlikely to be accessible to most people. The air shuttle cost 250 to 320 dollars while rail costs between 7 and 16 dollars.
Other
5.5.2021.The cost of airfares in Nigeria have gone up due to compulsory coronavirus testing. On average a ticket cost 200 dollars prior to the pandemic (2019). However, now the cost can be around 380 dollars.
Links
https://guardian.ng/news/319755-nigerians-benefitted-from-payroll-support-programme-presidency/
https://www.cfr.org/blog/nigeria-beefs-airport-security
https://guardian.ng/business-services/airlines-kick-as-coronavirus-tests-raise-airfares-by-45/
Tunisia,Tunis
22 April-7 May 2021.
Total cases 7 May 2021: 318.236
Total deaths 7 May 2021: 11277
7.5. The government announces total confinement from Sunday the 9th May until Sunday the 16th May. There is a curfew from 7 pm to 5 am and it is prohibited to travel between cities, although there are some exceptions. All gatherings and sporting events are banned during this period. Essential services are excluded from this ban. More than 500 people are in intensive care and Tunisia is struggling with oxygen supplies.
5.5.2021. There was a two-hour strike starting at 11 am on the 5th May. All bus and rail networks were suspended. This was due to attacks on drivers.
4.5.2021. The scientific commission recommended general confinement during the two days of Eid. The commission is also suggesting a ban of travelling between governates.
3.5.2021. Vaccinated travellers will no longer have to quarantine in government approved hotels but need to show proof that they are vaccinated. They will need to comply with self-isolation at their place of residence. Since the 3 May the quarantine period has been extended from 5 to 7 days. Travellers must do a RT-PCR test between day 5 and 8 of self-isolation. Travellers coming for medical care in Tunisia need rapid screen at the airport on their arrival. Those who are travelling on organised trips need to show proof of a negative PCR test conducted within 72 at the time of boarding. Children under 12 years old are exempt from this measure. They have to commit to stay in groups, and respect Tunisian health protocol regarding accommodation and travel. From the 3 May there is curfew from 10 pm to 5 am, except in exceptional circumstances. Governors are able to isolate areas of high risk. If masks are not worn in closed public spaces and on transport, a person can be given a fine of 60 dinars. Private and public parties, weekly markets, forums and congresses are not allowed. Outdoor areas of cafes can remain open, but not indoor areas. It is expected that countries will be classified as red, orange and green for international travel with different rules and regulations.
Links
https://directinfo.webmanagercenter.com/2021/05/05/tunisie-sit-in-de-deux-heures-des-bus-et-trains/
https://www.webdo.tn/2021/04/08/tunisie-la-greve-generale-des-transports-reportee/#.YG7iR-j0nb0
https://www.webdo.tn/2021/04/08/tunisie-la-greve-generale-des-transports-reportee/#.YJPPJ7VKjb0
Draft report 5 April -21 April
Transport report. 5 April- 21 April
South Africa
Total cases 21.4.2021: 1569935
Total deaths 21.4.2021: 53940
Government initiatives
15.4.2021. The Western Cape Transport MEC, Bonginkosi Madikizela, is suspended due to allegedly misleading the public on his qualifications. An investigation will determine all the factors.
13.4.2021. Western Cape Premier Alan Winde and the leader of the opposition, Cameron Dugmore have had conversations about a solution for Western Cape commuters and the integration of public transport systems. Winde and Dugmore discussed if more powers should be given to provinces, and Winde told the press club that he believed in the devolution of powers. There are discussions with the municipalities of Stellenbosch, Drakenstein and City of Cape Town about having a transport authority that can coordinate efforts to change public transport (train, rail as well as taxis). Dugmore argued that a corporative transport authority is needed to ensure that travelers get around safety, quickly and affordably.
8.4. 2021. The transport minister Fikile Mbalula has said that local airlines should start using a mobile travel pass which is a mobile application that can verify covid vaccines and tests.
Other
6.4. 2021.There were fewer road deaths during the Easter weekend in Cape Town. The numbers were 38 in 2019, and 25 in 2021. This is most likely due to roadblocks and checkpoints.
Links
https://ewn.co.za/2021/04/09/mbalula-urges-sa-airlines-to-begin-using-iata-mobile-travel-pass
Transport report 5 April- 21 April. Nigeria.
Total cases 21 April: 164488
Total deaths 21 April: 2061
13.4.2021. The federal government has introduced an on-street parking policy in the federal capital territory. It will be managed by four companies and start on the 1st May. The park and pay system was a controversial system about 5 years ago.
13.4. 2021. The federal airports authority of Nigeria confirms that they have received an alert from the Ministry of Aviation over planned attacks on airports in Nigeria, e.g. Abuja. They are still waiting to receive more details of the threat. Passengers in airports are encouraged to comply with covid-19 protocol. All drivers must park in designated car parks and not in front of the terminals, and passengers must walk to the vehicles in the carpark.
9.4.2021. The minister of transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has said that the ministry is committed to ensuring safe, affordable and efficient multimodal transport systems. The ministry embarked on developing a national road transport policy that is intended to address the challenges faced on the road.
Other
21.4.2021. The prices of an okada (motorbike) has surged by 102.46% and the price now stands at N271.44 (March 2021). The price was N234.07 in March 2020. The increase could be caused by the fuel crisis, the ban on motorbikes as well as the overall impact of the covid-19 pandemic. The average bus fare was N361.31 in February 2021 and 377.27 in March 2021.
20. 4.2021. Fuel queues have started again in Abuja two months after petrol scarcity hit major cities in Nigeria. On the 20th April more petrol stations were shut, and no fuel stations sold petrol on Lugbe Airport Road and Kubwa express way. Some petrol stations had no petrol in stock.
7.4. 2021. Passengers on the Abuja-Kaduna train continue to complain of the difficulties of accessing the online payment platform. Those who were unable to buy tickets online had to arrive three hours before to buy tickets at the counter.
Links
https://nairametrics.com/2021/04/21/motorcycle-okada-fare-in-nigeria-surges-by-102-5-in-march-2021/
https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/04/13/faan-alleges-plot-to-attack-airports/
https://guardian.ng/news/amaechi-restates-commitment-to-efficient-transportation/
https://guardian.ng/news/train-passengers-lament-difficulty-in-accessing-e-ticket/
Tunisia
Transport report. 5 April- 21 April
18.4.2021. The government in Tunisia decides that it is prohibited to drive motorcycles, cars between 7 pm and 5 am, which includes public transport. The curfew is maintained at 10 pm. Classes are suspended in basic education schools, colleges and high schools. Businesses that do not comply with sanitary procedures will be suspended. There will be systematic PCR tests on Tunisian soil. Some areas will be closed if the cases are high. The private sector should encourage teleworking and limit face-to-face interactions.
8.4.2021. The head of government Hichem Mechichi and the president of UNICA (trade union for industry, trade and handicrafts) signed a declaration between the government and employers that includes 8 reflection committees that will deal with reforms e.g. in the area of transport.
8.4.2021. The general transport federation decides to postpone a strike on the 9 April intended to demand a reform of the transport industry and pay the agents (maritime, air and land transport), until May 20th 2021.
Links
https://www.webdo.tn/2021/04/08/tunisie-la-greve-generale-des-transports-reportee/#.YG7iR-j0nb0
Draft report 18.3-4.4.2021
South Africa
Current cases 4.4.2021: 1551964
Current deaths 4.4.2021: 52987
Cape Town
Government initiatives
2.4.2021. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma made a slight alteration to the ban on transporting alcohol during the Easter break. It is not prohibited to transport your own alcohol from your home, but only alcohol bought in a shop.
1.4.2021. The Johnson and Johnson covid-19 vaccine has been approved for use in South Africa.
1.4.2021. Transporting alcohol will be prohibited for Easter to reduce the spread of covid-19. Alcohol can only been sold in licensed premises
1.4.2021 The Premier Alan says that the state of the public transport sector is preventing the economy from growing, and argued that one central transport authority is needed, e.g. that the local municipality should manage the rail network. The chairperson of PRASA (Passenger rail agency) said that they expect the central line will be fully operational by the end of the year.
1.4.2021. Western Cape authorities are starting a 7-day traffic plan that will involve patrol vehicles being fitted with technological equipment that can spot an identity offenders, e.g. if people are using a stolen vehicle.
Other
1.4.2021. The SA national taxi council said that the council will raise awareness of road safety and conduct visits in long distance regions ahead of the Easter break.
24.3.2021. In a video on eyewitness news it is reported that people living in low income communities (Tafelsig and Elsiesriver) both suffer from the impact of covid-19 and hunger. Many fear the impact of gangsterism due to rising inequalities.
21.3.2021. Golden arrow has installed security cameras and panic buttons on their buses, as there were 6 or 7 robberies per week up to February 2021.
Links
https://ewn.co.za/2021/04/01/wc-transport-authorities-turn-to-technology-to-make-roads-safer
Nigeria
Total cases 4.4.2021: 163195
Total deaths 4.4.2021. 2058.
Government initiatives
1.4.2021. The governor of Kaduna state, Nasir El Rufai, has asked the ministry of transportation to increase the frequency of trains between Kaduna and Abuja which will help reduce overcrowding.
28.3.2021. The minister of Transportation, at Rivers state, Mr. Chibuike Amaechi, said that women should be given more political appointments. He said this at the association of Nigerian women Business Network in Abuja.
19.3.2021. The covid-19 vaccine has been rolled out to 35 states in Nigeria
Other
27.3.2021.Taxi drivers, who are working under the aegis of the national union of professional app based workers (NUPA-BW) have said that they are working on a lawsuit against Uber and Bolt with the aim of getting them to respect worker’s rights. This is related to a recent development in the UK to classify uber drivers as workers with rights to holiday pay, pension and a guaranteed minimum pay. The president of NUPA-BW has expressed that drivers in Nigeria also have the rights as employees, since they are legally classified as workers under Nigeria’s current legislation.
23.3.2021. The bank of industry, under the supervision of the ministry of industry, trade and investment has secured a 1 billion Naira loan to support micro, small and medium enterprises aimed at supporting businesses from the shocks of the pandemic.
3.4.2021. Food costs have gone up in Nigeria. A 40 kg basket of tomato in March was sold for 6000 Naira in March but has risen to 8000. A 100 kg bag of onions is selling from 19000 Naira as opposed to 14000.
25.3.2021 Transport fares by bus have risen by 78.08 % in the last year in Nigerian cities
Links
https://www.thecable.ng/overcrowding-el-rufai-asks-fg-to-increase-frequency-of-abuja-kaduna-trains
https://nairametrics.com/2021/03/19/covid-19-vaccines-delivered-to-35-states-nphcda/
https://leadership.ng/nigerians-celebrate-easter-amidst-high-food-prices-transport-fare/
Tunisia
Total cases 4.4.2021: 260044
Total deaths 4.4.2021: 8965
Government initiatives
24.3.2021. The prices of public transport will be revised on the 9 June 2021. The minister of Transport and Logistics, Moez Chakchouk also addressed the issue on digitalisation in public transport particularly regarding electronic payments
Other
4.4.2021. The American Agency of the Millennium challenge will finance two projects in Tunisia, one on water, and another on transport and trade. The estimated benefit is expected at 19.6%. This is expected to strengthen both national and international trade and lower prices in the transport sector
24.3.2021. The forum for integrated solutions for intelligent transport and the company ‘Be Wireless solutions’, as well as regional directors within local and regional authorities met at an event to launch a new intelligent transport system launched by Be Wireless, which is expected to improve the traveller experience in terms of time and comfort. It will include digital sales,online passenger information as well as seat reservations.
23.3.2021. The agents of the national company of Tunisian railways (SNCFT) started an unexpected strike on Tuesday the 22 March 2021 that caused railway transport to stop. The strike was launched to demand the financial rights of the agents and for a resumption of activities on the railway line N13.
Links
Draft report 18.3-4.4.2021
South Africa
Current cases 4.4.2021: 1551964
Current deaths 4.4.2021: 52987
Cape Town
Government initiatives
2.4.2021. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma made a slight alteration to the ban on transporting alcohol during the Easter break. It is not prohibited to transport your own alcohol from your home, but only alcohol bought in a shop.
1.4.2021. The Johnson and Johnson covid-19 vaccine has been approved for use in South Africa.
1.4.2021. Transporting alcohol will be prohibited for Easter to reduce the spread of covid-19. Alcohol can only been sold in licensed premises
1.4.2021 The Premier Alan says that the state of the public transport sector is preventing the economy from growing, and argued that one central transport authority is needed, e.g. that the local municipality should manage the rail network. The chairperson of PRASA (Passenger rail agency) said that they expect the central line will be fully operational by the end of the year.
1.4.2021. Western Cape authorities are starting a 7-day traffic plan that will involve patrol vehicles being fitted with technological equipment that can spot an identity offenders, e.g. if people are using a stolen vehicle.
Other
1.4.2021. The SA national taxi council said that the council will raise awareness of road safety and conduct visits in long distance regions ahead of the Easter break.
24.3.2021. In a video on eyewitness news it is reported that people living in low income communities (Tafelsig and Elsiesriver) both suffer from the impact of covid-19 and hunger. Many fear the impact of gangsterism due to rising inequalities.
21.3.2021. Golden arrow has installed security cameras and panic buttons on their buses, as there were 6 or 7 robberies per week up to February 2021.
Links
https://ewn.co.za/2021/04/01/wc-transport-authorities-turn-to-technology-to-make-roads-safer
Nigeria
Total cases 1.4.2021: 163195
Total deaths 1.4.2021. 2058.
Government initiatives
1.4.2021. The governor of Kaduna state, Nasir El Rufai, has asked the ministry of transportation to increase the frequency of trains between Kaduna and Abuja which will help reduce overcrowding.
28.3.2021. The minister of Transportation, at Rivers state, Mr. Chibuike Amaechi, said that women should be given more political appointments. He said this at the association of Nigerian women Business Network in Abuja.
19.3.2021. The covid-19 vaccine has been rolled out to 35 states in Nigeria
Other
27.3.2021.Taxi drivers, who are working under the aegis of the national union of professional app based workers (NUPA-BW) have said that they are working on a lawsuit against Uber and Bolt with the aim of getting them to respect worker’s rights. This is related to a recent development in the UK to classify uber drivers as workers with rights to holiday pay, pension and a guaranteed minimum pay. The president of NUPA-BW has expressed that drivers in Nigeria also have the rights as employees, since they are legally classified as workers under Nigeria’s current legislation.
23.3.2021. The bank of industry, under the supervision of the ministry of industry, trade and investment has secured a 1 billion Naira loan to support micro, small and medium enterprises aimed at supporting businesses from the shocks of the pandemic.
3.4.2021. Food costs have gone up in Nigeria. A 40 kg basket of tomato in March was sold for 6000 Naira in March but has risen to 8000. A 100 kg bag of onions is selling from 19000 Naira as opposed to 14000.
25.3.2021 Transport fares by bus have risen by 78.08 % in the last year in Nigerian cities
Links
https://www.thecable.ng/overcrowding-el-rufai-asks-fg-to-increase-frequency-of-abuja-kaduna-trains
https://nairametrics.com/2021/03/19/covid-19-vaccines-delivered-to-35-states-nphcda/
https://leadership.ng/nigerians-celebrate-easter-amidst-high-food-prices-transport-fare/
Tunisia
Total cases 1.4.2021: 260044
Total deaths 1.4.2021: 8965
Government initiatives
24.3.2021. The prices of public transport will be revised on the 9 June 2021. The minister of Transport and Logistics, Moez Chakchouk also addressed the issue on digitalisation in public transport particularly regarding electronic payments
Other
4.4.2021. The American Agency of the Millennium challenge will finance two projects in Tunisia, one on water, and another on transport and trade. The estimated benefit is expected at 19.6%. This is expected to strengthen both national and international trade and lower prices in the transport sector
24.3.2021. The forum for integrated solutions for intelligent transport and the company ‘Be Wireless solutions’, as well as regional directors within local and regional authorities met at an event to launch a new intelligent transport system launched by Be Wireless, which is expected to improve the traveller experience in terms of time and comfort. It will include digital sales,online passenger information as well as seat reservations.
23.3.2021. The agents of the national company of Tunisian railways (SNCFT) started an unexpected strike on Tuesday the 22 March 2021 that caused railway transport to stop. The strike was launched to demand the financial rights of the agents and for a resumption of activities on the railway line N13.
Links
Transport report 28.2-17.3.2021.
South Africa
Total covid-19 cases 17.3.2021:1.532497
Total covid-19 deaths 17.3.2021: 51634
Government initiatives
15.3. 2021. The Western Cape Agriculture MEC suggests stricter regulations to be introduced around the transportation of workers on the back of open bakkies, e.g. regarding hygiene regulations as well as a maximum of 50% of the licensed capacity.
12.3. 2021. The city of Cape Town has collected fines amounting to R26.000 for non-adherence to covid-19 rules in the week before the 12th March 2021.
7.3.2021. Calls are being made into investigating the spending allocated to the Red dot taxi service which has provided services to key workers during the covid-19 pandemic. 37 million rand has been paid to the company which is more than half of the provincial transport total spend over three months
5.3.2021. A blue dot taxi violence pilot project aims to bring stability to the violence ridden taxi industry and is launched by premier Alan Winde with public works MEC Bonginkosi Madikizela. This is an incentive programme that will reward good driving behaviour and customer service, and aims to prevent conflict. About 1300 taxis will participate.
28.2.2021. The transport minister says that PRASA will approach the high court to remove those who build homes on railway tracks. This is delaying construction work on the rail way line from Langa to Khayelitsha.
1.3.2021. The transport minister has made changes to domestic air travel under level 1 which means that passengers on domestic flights will not be able to eat onboard. International flights will continue at OR Tambo international airport, King Shaka international airport and Cape Town international airport.
Other
12.3.2021. Opinions are divided about the proposed new commercial airport in Cape Town in the former Fisantekraal Airfield. The secretary general of the political party ‘Good’ said that he was worried that there is increased focus on a new airport while the public transport system is not running – e.g. non-working trains.
11.3.2021: The taxi organisation, CATA, warns the Masiphumelele community to stop using non taxi alliance transportation. The chair person for CATA has said that more e-hailers and private taxi shuttlers are operating without a license.
3.3.2021. The cost of food is predicted to go up by 10% due to the hike in oil prices. Workers have prioritised electricity, transport, and educational costs and have had to cut down on food expenses.
Links
https://www.enca.com/news/prasa-wants-get-back-track-cape-town
Tunisia
Total cases 17.3.2021. 233.439
Total deaths 17.3.2021. 8463
Government initiatives
17.3. 2021. Tunisia receives the Pfizer vaccine (93.600 doses)
12.3.2021. Travellers who are arriving in Tunisia must go into confinement for 48 hours after entering Tunisia. They need to present a negative PCR test upon boarding which is taken within the last 72 hours. They must also perform a PCR test 48 hours after arriving in Tunisia. If the result is negative, the person can leave confinement.
13.3.2021. The national intraurban transport company will start its international bus line from Tunisia to Tripoli from the 19 March 2021.
11.3.2021. Maritime, air and land transport will be on strike on the 8.4.2021 to reform transport companies and to protest against the privatisation of the sector.
10.3.2021. The central bank governor of Tunisia says that the gender divide has been worsened by the covid-19 pandemic. He quotes a study by the UNDP on the economic impact of covid-19 in Tunisia. Monetary poverty could drop to 19.77% for women and 18.72% for men as a result of the pandemic.
9.3.2021. Tunisia received 30.000 doses of the Russian Vaccine Spuknik V. The vaccination programme will be launched on the 12 March starting with health professionals as a key priority.
8.3.2021 Curfew hours are now from 10 pm 5 am. The ban on movement between governates is lifted, but is replaced by a closure of regions that are experiencing an increasing numbers of cases. Cafes and restaurants will close at 8 pm. Compulsory confinement in hotels in cancelled, but there will be a 48 hour confinement period in a place of the traveller’s choice. Administrative hours will be from 8.30 am to 12.30 pm and 1.30 pm to 5.30 pm from Monday to Thursday, and on Fridays 8 am to 1 pm, and 2.30 to 5.30 pm.
8.3.2021. The Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Tunisiens (SNCFT) announced that they will resume train services due to the alterations in curfew hours from 10 pm to 5am. The first train will leave Tunis station to Erriadh station at 5.30 am.
27.2.2021. The minister of transport in Tunisia said that there will soon be an increase in bus prices and metro prices.
Links
https://africanmanager.com/marouane-el-abassi-plus-degalite-et-de-meritocratie-a-la-bct/
Nigeria
Total cases 17.3.2021: 161274
Total deaths 17.3.2021: 2.027
Government initiatives:
10.3.2021. The national assembly has expressed that they are ready to amend the constitution to ensure gender parity and improve the fortune of women and girls in Nigeria.
2.3.2021. The vaccination programme is expected to take off from the 5 March, prioritizing health workers, and thereafter according to different age groups
7.3.2021. The federal government dismisses a report in a newspaper that it will cost 10.6 billion Naira to distribute the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine to 36 states.
Other
17.3.2021. Analysts are urging the federal government to fund critical sectors that will boost job opportunities due to rising unemployment rates. The unemployment rate has risen to 33.3 per cent in Q4 2020 from 27.1. in Q2 of the same year.
16.3.2021. The inflation rate in Nigeria rises from 16.47% in January to 17.33% in February. This is the highest inflation rate in four years. The highest increases were in passenger transport by air, medical services, miscellaneous services related to dwelling, hospital services and passenger transport by road.
14.3.2021, The convener of the ‘Stand up for Women’ NGO noted that women should be given more chances at policy level during the inauguration of the organisation in Abuja.
11.3.2021. The opposition party in Nigeria has criticized the authorities decision to spend over N10.6.billion on the transportation of the covid-19 vaccine. The PRP national chair person suggested instead to spend money on health centres across the country. He also urges to the government to state how much has been spent to fight the pandemic.
8.3.2021. A ride sharing service in Lagos called Shuttlers is seeking to expand to Abuja and Accra and seeks to raise 15 million dollars by the end of the second quarter to do this.
5.3.2021. There have been many petrol queues in Abuja due to the hike in petrol prices. There has been over a 100% hike in transport fares. Some people are buying fuel of the black market, as they have been waiting at fuel stations in Abuja for several hours to buy fuel.
Links
https://punchng.com/petrol-queues-abate-as-more-stations-resume-operations/
https://guardian.ng/news/prp-flays-plan-to-transport-covid-19-vaccines-with-n10-6-billion/
https://dailypost.ng/2021/03/10/senate-to-amend-laws-infringing-on-rights-of-nigerian-women/
https://dailypost.ng/2021/03/14/nigeria-could-be-better-if-women-had-more-chances-ngo-boss-
https://leadership.ng/fuel-scarcity-black-marketers-take-over-abuja-lagos-oyo-others/
Draft report 10-27 February 2021
Cape Town
Current cases 27.2.2021; 1.510.778
Current deaths 27.2.2021: 49.784.
Government implementations
18.2.2021. The transport MEC Bonginkosi Madikizela has met with two taxi organisations after a fatal shooting in Bellville where 3 people died, and one wounded. He said that he will engage with taxi organisations to prevent violence. It is believed that the people were killed was due to taxi violence. On the same day the Codeta taxi association distributed flyers to staff transporters, sedan taxi drivers and e-hailing services (Uber and Bolt) that they should stop taking their customers or face fines.
18.2.2021. The transport minister, Fikile Mbalula is outlining a number of initiatives that are being working on, including a plan to scrap about 63.000 taxis and to finalise the issue on e-tolls. The plan is to prioritise a road to rail shift. Road users have complained about the e-toll system since its reception in 2013 leading to the non-payment by many. The new transport model will include a focus on buses. New fines will also be reviewed.
10.2.2021. In his state of the nation address in 2020 President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that R.1.4 billion will be spent on fixing the central line. But a year afterwards, PRASA (Passenger rail agency of South Africa) has not spent the money. This is partly due to the covid-19 pandemic and lockdown but also due to internal capacity challenges. The plan is to open the services to Langa by February 2021, and services from Khayelitsha to Mitchells Plain between September and December 2021 provided that illegal settlements are removed.
Other
23.2.2021. Workers, unions expect to hear what options KAP Industrial holdings considered before they decided to close Greyhound, Magic Transfers and Mega bus services. About 700 workers have been impacted by this and many face unemployment/hardships caused by this.
23.2.2021. The unemployment rate in South Africa has risen to 32.5 %, and is particularly concentrated among youth (mostly 15-34) and black Africans (an unemployment rate of 36.5.%). Those with lowers levels of education have been more likely to receive a reduced pay during the pandemic.
20. 2.2021. Even though the central line has been opened, thousands of travellers are still looking for alternative means of transport. The train currently runs from Cape Town to Langa station but is meant to run to Chris Hani station and Kapteinsklip. There are about 8000 shacks around the train tracks that have been there for several years. Some residents argue that they must provide them with land and that it is not due to the settlements that the train stopped but rather cable theft.
19.2.2020. About 400 pupils from Forest Village are learning under a tree as their parents are demanding an IsiKhosa medium school in the area. The parents say that they were moved from informal settlements (Khayelitsha, Nyanga and Philippi) and that they cannot afford to transport their children back to these schools. The provincial education department say that they have attempted to transport the children to nearby schools, but the parents have refused this.
19.2. 2021. 5 suspects have been arrested following robberies on Golden Arrow buses. This was revealed by the Golden Arrow general manager on Tuesday the 16.2.2021.
16.2.2021.The Langa to Cape Town line took off on the 15 February after more than a year out of service due to cable theft and vandalism. However, one of the commuters was not impressed due to the train getting stuck on the way. Prasa’s board person Leonard Ramatlakane said that PRASA owed it to communities to reintroduce a safe, reliable and affordable public transport during tough covid-19 times.
Links
https://ewn.co.za/2021/02/18/madikizela-meets-taxi-associations-in-wake-of-bellville-shooting
https://www.enca.com/news/pupils-learning-under-trees-cape-town
Nigeria
Current cases 27.2.2021: 155.076
Current deaths 27.2.2021: 1902
Abuja
Government implementations.
28.2.2021 The presidential task force announced that four million doses of the covax vaccine will arrive on Tuesday the 2 March.
21.2.2021. The health minister in Nigeria has disclosed that Nigeria might get access to covid-19 vaccines in 10 days. A week early the national agency for food and drug administration and control (NAFDAC) approved the Oxford/AstraZeneca covid-19 vaccine for use in Nigeria.
14.2.2021. The Nigerian Customs Service will implement tariff reductions on vehicles before the end of February. The president has signed the finance bill in December 2020(31) stipulation downward review of excise duty on tractors and motor vehicles.
Other
28.1.2021 Most filling stations were shut in Abuja on Sunday morning and there were long queues to buy petrol.
26.2.2021. The average fare paid by a commuter travelling on a motorcycle (okada) has decreased by 11.6%. Commuters are hence paying less than in December 2020. The current price is (N259.33) compared to (N293.36) in December. Transportation costs take a large part of the budget for lower/middle class Nigerians.
13.2.2021. The airports council international have accredited two of Nigeria’s international airports in its health accreditation programme. These include the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja and the Port Harcourt International Airport Omagwa, Rivers State. The programme is designed to assess how aligned airport health measures are with restart guidelines
10.2.2021. Travel agencies in Nigeria have recorded a 46.9% loss in sales in 2020 as a result of the pandemic. The president of the Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA) has urged the federal government to hasten up the process of acquiring the covid-19 vaccine.
Links
https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/442727-customs-announces-date-to-begin-vehicle-tariff-reduction.html
Tunisia
Current cases 27.2.2021: 231.964
Current deaths 27.2.2021: 7942
Tunis
Government implementations
19.2.2021. The Ministry of Transport and Logistics, Tunisair and TAV Tunisia reached an agreement to unblock the crisis and reschedule debts on the 19 February 2021.
Other
26.2.2021- Journalists, activists and influencers have started a campaign advocating for positive masculinity. The campaign responds to the violence against women during confinement. The project in Tunisia calls on men in Tunisia to demonstrate positive masculinity.
24.2.2021. Despite the impact of the pandemic business leaders in Tunisia are cautiously optimistic about the outlook for 2021 and the rebound in economic activity. This is based on a survey (economic situation barometer) focusing on health, political crisis, economic difficult and recurring tension. The effects of covid-19 have been particularly strong in the tourism, transport, textile and aeronautics sectors where 13% consider the impact to be very strong.
23.2.2021. The Tunisian Federation of Travel Agencies (FTAV) has asked the minister to make it compulsory for passengers to go through travel agencies. This is with the intention of involving travel agencies in the fight against covid-19. Tunisia welcomed 400.000 tourists in 2020.
20.2.2021. In an article in Lapress Chokri Gharbi points out that unemployment is on the rise due to the covid-19 pandemic and unemployment has gained new proportions following the dismissal of several staff. The unemployment rate rose to 17.4% in the fourth quarter of 2020. Companies have suffered because of the pandemic and urgently need financial resources.
17.2.2021. The Tunis-Carthage interchange will be open to traffic by April 2021. The project has costed about 68 million dinars. This road is considered an important infrastructure in Greater Tunis.
11.2.2021. On the 8th of February it was the international day of women and girls in science and in Tunis they held a press conference to shine a spotlight on women in society and women’s skills in various fields. Wiem Sfar Zaoui, who is an air traffic controller at Monastir, emphasised that 20%, or one in five women, hold a position of responsibility in the field of air transport.
Links
Draft report 22 January to 9 February 2021
South Africa
Current cases 9.2. 1,479.256
Current deaths 9.2. 46.869
Cape Town
Government implementations
1.2.2020. South Africa will remain in level 3, but the alcohol ban has been lifted, and restrictions on worship have been eased. The curfew will now run from 11 pm to 4 am. Religious gatherings are allowed with 50 people inside, and 100 people outside. Rivers, parks and beaches will be opened.
2.2.2021. The city of Cape Town has approved more than R10 million for covid-19 food relief
2.2.2021. The first dose of the covid-19 vaccination has arrived in South Africa on the 1 February 2021. Minibus drivers, teachers, hotel and restaurant workers will be prioritised in phase two
2.2.2021. International flights can land and departure South Africa during curfew (11 pm to 4 am). Passengers who are going to the airport in these hours can transport themselves during curfew as long as they provide proof in the form of a boarding pass/airline ticket.
1.2.2021.The department of transport in Western Cape wants to make emergency service vehicles safter for staff who have been subject to attacks
27.1.2021. The Western Cape Transport MEC says that it is a key priority to relocate those who have built shacks on top of the unused railway line during the pandemic.
27.1.2021. Metrorail and the Transport and Works MEC have revealed that they are going to re-introduce a train line from Cape Town to Langa.
Other
8.2.2021. The Ukubavimba Foundation (a socio economic and social justice organisation) has lodged a complaint with the SA human rights commission against the bus company ‘Golden Arrow’. They have lodged this complaint to fight for the rights of the poor who have been robbed on Golden Arrow buses.
4.1.2021. On the 1st February PRASA issued notice period of 10 days for shack dwellers who have been making an informal settlement along the central line. PRASA, which is Metrorail’s mother company, estimate that about 8000 people have built houses along the train tracks – some on top of the train tracks.
3.2.2021.The transport company called Greyhound will close its services (Greyhound and Citiliner buses) after 27 years of operations due to the economic impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic.
29.1.2021. The opposition parties say that it is too soon to lift the alcohol ban, as this could trigger a third wave
25.1.2021. 14 have been arrested after hijacking e-hailing drivers in Nyanga, Cape Town. The Nyanga community police forum hopes this will send a strong signal to criminals in the area.
Links
Nigeria
Current cases 9.2.2021: 141447
Current deaths 9.2.2021: 1694
Abuja
Government initiatives
2.2.2021. The authorities in Abuja shut down a central market (Wuse) which have been heavily guarded with police officers and soldiers. The market will be shut for three days for failing to comply with covid-19 procedures.
29.1.2021. The federal government says it will ensure strict compliance with the current health regulations, and will ensure greater awareness campaigns. The FCT will sanction organisations that do not comply and ensure an effective use of mobile courts for offenders. All road transport unions will be engaged to ensure the enforcement of the regulations.
4.2.2021. The federal government releases 27 billion Naira for a micro, small and medium enterprises survival fund that is part of the N75 billion Nigeria economic sustainable plan that is being implemented to cushion the effects of the covid-19 pandemic.
28.1.2021. The president has signed the coronavirus decease health protection 2021 which means that for instance face masks are mandatory in public places. There must be no gathering of more than 50 people in an enclosed space, except in the case of religious gatherings. Gatherings that are religious must not exceed 50% capacity of space. A person who is tested positive must isolate, and cannot refuse to do so. A physical distance of 2 meters must be always kept at gatherings. Anyone who goes against these rules will commit an offence. An offence is both punishable by a fine or a term of 6 months imprisonment.
27.1.2021. The minister of state for transportation Saraki pledges the readiness of the ministry to transport the road sector through partnerships. Saraki says that every sector in road transportation is being looked at, especially illegal transport unions.
26.1.2021. The FCT is investigating how they can vaccinate 70% of the population in the next two years against covid-19. The vaccines are expected to roll out by late March or April 2021.
26.1. 2021. The FCT has extended the phase 3 of the eased lockdown with effect from the 26 January.
26.1.2021. The president says that the pandemic has exposed a technological gap between Nigeria and ‘the developed world’. The national agency for science and infrastructure aims to address this gap.
Other
5.2.2021. Travel agencies protest against rapid testing at airports due to the increased costs for passengers- measures that have been implemented due to claims of fake tests.
29.1.2021. The disability rights advocate centre in collaboration with the Ford foundation has urged relevant stakeholders in the transport sector to build synergies to enable access to transportation facilitates for people with disabilities.
Links
https://punchng.com/covid-19-violators-face-imprisonment-as-buhari-signs-regulations/
https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/02/04/fg-releases-n27bn-for-msme-survival-fund-scheme-2/
https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/01/partnership-key-to-road-transport-transformation-saraki/
https://punchng.com/covid-19-exposed-nigerias-technology-deficit-says-buhari/
https://leadership.ng/drac-calls-for-implementation-of-access-to-transport-facilities-for-pwd/
Tunisia
Current cases 9.2.2021: 218564
Current deaths 9.2.2021: 7332
Tunis
Government initiatives
8.2.2021. The first doses of the vaccine are expected in late February 2021.
5.2.2021. Passengers, who are entering Tunisia due to emergencies or deaths in their families must present a negative PCR test not exceeding 24 hours from that of the flight. Moreover, the passenger must present a death certificate of the deceased. The airline companies must verify these documents ensuring the family ties, and hand out documents to the health controls upon arrival. The passenger must wear a mask, keep a distance and stick to hand hygiene.
1.2.2021. From the 1 February travellers arriving in Tunisia will have to isolate themselves for 7 days at their expense in dedicated hotels. Only special vehicles will allow to transport them to these hotels
29.1.2021.The ministers for transport and logistics, communication technologies and the digital economy signed two strategic partnership agreements – one between the Tunisian post office and Tunis air an another between the Tunisian navigation company and the Tunisian post office. The agreements concern sales and electronic payments. Customers can join the Tunisian posts remote payment system using both international and national payment cards.
26.1.2021. Those who return to Tunisia on short trips (5 days or less) must present a negative PCR test taken 72 hours before boarding. They must also commit to compulsory confinement in a dedicated centre at their own expense and carry out a COVID-19 test on the 7th day. If this is negative, they can leave the centre. Exceptional authorisations can be given by the containment commission.
Other
27.1.2021. The general federation of secondary education has called for general confinement due to the catastrophic epidemiological situation. The federation also points to the lack of equipment in schools.
23.1.2021. On the 23rd January there were demonstrations in Tunis against police repression and to demand for better policies during the covid-19 pandemic, when family families are struggling with their finances. This follows several nights of political unrest and violence. The curfew between 8 and 5 am has been extended until mid February.
Links
https://news.gnet.tn/tunisie-durcissement-des-dispositions-de-voyage-a-compter-du-1er-fevrier-2021/
Draft report 7 January to 21 January 2021.
South Africa
Current cases 21.1.2021: 1, 369,426
Current deaths 21.1.2021: 38.854
Government initiatives
12.1.2021. The border posts are closed in South Africa. However, certain categories of people can travel. Entry into South Africa is permitted for the transportation of fuel, cargo, goods, and emergency medical attention. The home affairs minister may also allow the entry or exit from SA for the return of a South African national, a permanent resident or a long-term visa holder. The minister may also allow the entry or exit of South Africa for funeral purposes, for diplomats, for the deportation of foreign nationals and the departure of a foreign national to his or her country. A SA national or permanent resident will be permitted to go to his or her place of employment, study or residence outside South Africa. Daily commuters who attend school in South Africa will also be allowed to cross the border. Travellers will be subject to compliance with health protocols, e.g., the screening for covid-19 and quarantine or isolation. International air travel is restricted to OR Tambo, King Shaka and Cape Town international airports. Travellers arriving at these destinations must provide a negative covid-19 test obtained no more than 72 hours. The transport of carbo to and from other countries is permitted (rail, ocean, air and road).
11.1.2021. South Africa will remain in lockdown 3. The curfew hours are changed from 9 pm to 5 am and the ports of entry in the country are closed until the 15th February. The sale, distribution and transportation of alcohol is not allowed. The administration is working on securing 20 million vaccine doses by the first quarter of 2021.
Other
18.1.2021. An activist from Mitchell’s Plain starts a taxi service for women called ’ladies own transport’ due to wanting to protect women from sexual assaults when travelling on public transport.
18.1.2021. Metrorail has suspended its train services for the rest of January due to vandalism.
15.1.2021. The city of Cape Town has called on the Minister of Cooperative Governance and traditional affairs to extend the current curfew from 9 pm to 11 pm due to businesses struggling to keep their businesses going.
14.1.2021. The national taxi alliance (NTA) wants the government to prioritise the taxi industry when they roll out covid-19 vaccinations. The NTA wants the government to recognise the taxi industry as an essential service and to earmark the vaccine to drivers and taxi rank operators.
14.1.2021. The transport union, UNTU, are saddened by the loss of members to covid-19. The passenger rail agency of South Africa (PRASA) lost four of its members, and three workers working for UNTU died in the last week. The union appealed to all South Africans to follow covid-19 guidelines.
10.1.2021. The army ais controlling the streets of Cape Town. They started operations on the Cape Town metro on the 5th January 2021 and the garden route on Saturday the 9th. The deployments already covered Khayalitcha, Nyanga, Delft, kraaifontein, Mfuleni, Mitchell’s plane, Lentegeur, Samora Machel. They focused on enforcing the curfew between 9 pm and 6 am.
6.1.2021. Soldiers will be deployed in the Cape Town area, due to the closure of the beach. The Police minister General Bheki Cele said that tourists who come to surf there are undermining the undermining the South African state.
Nigeria
Current cases 21.1.2021: 114.691
Current deaths 21.1.2021: 1.478
Government initiatives
20.1.2021.The federal government has launched a Rapid response register that will enable households to get N5000.
14.1.2021. The federal government are targeting 160.000 vulnerable women/rural women for a cash benefit of N200.000 to cushion the effects of covid-19.
14.1.2021. The government begins test booking for an e-ticketing platform for the Nigerian Railway cooperation. They will inaugurate this service next week. The e-ticketing service will start with the Abuja to Kaduna highway. Many twitter followers expressed hope that this would eradicate touts at train stations.
12.1.2021. The federal government said that they will continue to support micro, small and medium enterprises in collaboration with the private sector. The MSMEs Survival Fund grant scheme includes Payroll Support, Artisans and Transport support tracks and was designed to cushion the effects of the covid-19 pandemic especially to those in small businesses.
Other
18.1.2021. More than 8000 passengers have accessed an e-ticketing service on the Abuja to Kaduna train service three days after the test run of the portal. However, passengers complained that there were a limited e-tickets available and that ticket racketeering remained unchanged.
17.1.2021. An article in Nigerian Tribune touches on the issue of women in transport (particularly in Lagos and Ogun states). Kola Muhammed argues that there are a growing number of women venturing into road transport business often due to harsh economic conditions and the need to survive. Some of these women are single or widows. Many of the women cannot afford a tricycle of their own and need to rent tricycles. Kola Muhammed also reports that there is a growing concern that there should be more women in leaderships positions in the national union of transport workers (NURTW)
7.1.2021. The Abuja green painted taxi operators are a newly created on demand car hire and logistics service, NAIRAXI. People will be able to book online in the NAIRAXI APP. According to the chairman of the Abuja painted taxi operators the service is the most legal and most used serviced in the federal capital area. The chairman said that Bolt and Uber are operating illegally due to their lack of licensing.
Links
https://punchng.com/govt-begins-test-bookings-on-railway-e-ticketing-platforms/
https://guardian.ng/news/over-8000-passengers-access-e-ticketing-on-abuja-kaduna-train-service/
https://guardian.ng/news/bolt-uber-operating-illegally-in-abuja-says-president-of-taxi-union/
https://leadership.ng/more-security-in-fct-as-abuja-painted-taxi-operators-go-digital/
Tunisia
Current cases 21.1.2021: 188.373
Current deaths 21.1.202: 5921
Government initiatives
18.1.2021. A return to almost normal will be observed on the 18 January after 4 days of general confinement. Administrative schedules will be restored in which officials will work every other day from the 18 to the 24 January. The Tunisian post office will be open from 8 am to 2 pm. The curfew will be from 8 pm to 5 am. Classes of all levels will be suspended until the 24 January. Transport services are authorised to transport people between governates if they have a permit. Individual, collective, and public transport will resume services. The targeted confinement is particularly concerned with the prohibition of demonstrations, gatherings and travel between cities, as well as the curfew and the organisation of work groups, and remote working. Mosques are open on the 18.1.2021 but the elderly are urged not to come. Shops will be reopened.
13.1.2020. The government in Tunisia decides to institute general confinement from the 14th to the 17th January, except the supply of vital sectors, and with a curfew from 4 pm to 6 am the following day. Private and public courses (e.g. basic education and higher education) are suspended from the 13th to the 24th January, as well as events, cafes and restaurants (take away allowed). Chairs will be removed from cafes. Private companies must opt for teleworking. There will be a system whereby workers work by alteration or remotely.
13.1.2021. The ministry of transport announced that urban transport will be limited to health care professionals, active professionals and cases of extreme necessity following the governments decision to declare general confinement from the 14-17 January. These measures have been taken to ensure that students can return to their cities within 24 hours, starting from Wednesday the 13th Jan. An appeal has been launched to reschedule internal Tunis air express flights. Public transport will resume on the 18th of January in compliance with the curfew.
Other
18.1.2021. For the fourth night in a row Tunisia is experiencing unrest (Ettadhamen, Intilaka, Zahrouni, Kasserine, Beja and Monastir (acts of looting and vandalism). The police are mobilised in these areas and have confronted young people who have initiated the unrest.
18.1.2021. Tunisair have said that they will keep the flight schedule unchanged during the four days of confinement from the 14-17 January. Tunisair invites its passengers to comply with health protocols
16.1.2021. In an article in Lapresse. Hela Sayadi reports that there were a lot of crowds on public transport just before general confinement was announced with scenes of passengers struggling to get a seat. In the article it is argued that the ministry of transport should improve transport services to offer a minimum of comfort, availability and safety.
15.1-16.2021. Clashes erupted between security forces and demonstrators in Sousse, Kef, Bizerte and Tunis (Cité Ettadhamen, Tébourba, Sidi Hssine). Security forces used tear gas to disperse demonstrators who were setting care tires on fire.
12.1.2021.The scientific committee to the fight against coronavirus held a meeting on the 12 January 2012 encouraging the application of stronger prevention methods – the wearing of masks and physical distancing and maybe they will unveil new positions related to schools, public transport and the regions worst hit by the pandemic
11.1.2021. The vaccine will be available in Tunisia at the end of March 2021 (free for everyone but not mandatory). Tunisia intends to vaccine 20% of the population to curb the virus and 30% to stop the virus. The curfew is in place from 8 pm-5 am 7 days a week.
Links
https://www.webdo.tn/2021/01/18/kasserine-ettadhamen-intilaka-nouvelle-nuit-de-violence-en-tunisie/
https://en.africanmanager.com/tunisia-tunisair-keeps-flight-schedule-unchanged-in-lockdown-period/
https://www.webdo.tn/2021/01/17/tunisie-confinement-cible-tout-ce-qui-va-changer-demain-lundi/
Draft report 22 December to 6 January 2021
Nigeria
Current cases (6.1.2021):92,705
Current deaths (6.1.2021); 1319
Government initiatives
6.1.2021. The World Health organisation has authorised the Pfizer vaccine for covid-19 immunization in Nigeria. It will be available for emergency use. The FCT have had talks with China to access covid-19 vaccines in the country. Nigeria hopes to get 42 million vaccines through the Covax scheme. The federal government expects that they will receive the first batch of the vaccine by the end of January. The federal government has signed an agreement with the National Primary Healthcare Development agency and the Global Vaccine Alliance Initiative (Gavi) to access the vaccines.
6.1.2021. The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Mohammed Babandede, said that they will revoke visas for foreign travellers if they do not display a covid-19 certificate when arriving in the country
4.1.2021. The federal government has announced that there will be travel restrictions for 100 international travellers, who had allegedly flouted the 7-day mandatory PCR Test upon arriving. The travellers will be prevented from travelling out of the country. The Nigerian Immigration service has not been informed.
22.12.2020. Civil servants from Grade Level 12 and below must stay at home for 5 weeks; bars, nightclubs, pubs, recreational venues and event centers will be closed in all states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Restaurants must be closed except those providing takeaway, home deliveries, drive-ins and services to hotel residents. Formal and informal events such as weddings and conferences have been restricted to no more than 50 people. Events with more than 50 people should be held outdoors. Public transportation systems can carry 50% of their usual capacity. The task force is having discussions with the aviation and health authorities regarding restrictions of international travels due to the new strain.
Other
6.1. 2021. The team leader of the presidential committee on clearing of Apapa port and Access Roads, Kayode Opeifa, announced that the N10bn Covid-19 intervention fund for road transport workers and operators in Nigeria was very insufficient
4.1.2021. A newspaper reporter from the Guardian in Kaduna state has designed an app, Trainwise, that enables travellers to book their travel from Kaduna to Abuja and Lagos to Ibadan through an app on their mobile phones
1.1.2021. An article in technext.ng. talks about the growth of the e-hailing service PlentyWaka during the pandemic. One of the reasons for this growth is due to the company transporting essential workers and essential goods and services.
20.12.2020. The number of passengers who test positive after their 7th day are increasing which may have contributed to a recent spike in cases. Some are not abiding to test requirements due to weak enforcement systems.
Links
https://punchng.com/lagos-sokoto-abuja-paid-more-for-transport-in-2020-nbs/
https://guardian.ng/news/the-guardian-reporter-designs-e-ticketing-app/
https://punchng.com/weve-not-been-informed-of-covid-19-offenders-travel-ban-nis/
Draft report 5 Nov -21 December
Nigeria
Current cases (21.12.2020): 78.790
Current deaths (21.12.2020: 1227
Abuja
Government initiatives
21.12.2020. The government announces 5 weeks of restrictions, involving large gatherings (religious, sporting events and recreational activities). All government staff on GL 12 are to stay at home. There is also a compulsory closure of schools. It may also impose a fresh travel ban. On social media there is speculation about whether they will be another nationwide lockdown.
18.12.2020. The FRSC (federal road safety corps) warns road users about violating traffic rules and regulations (as well as COVID-19 regulations) in Plateau, Benue and Nasarawa. Persons who fail to comply will risk arrest and prosecution. The special operation from the 15 December to 15 January focuses on speeding, dangerous driving, overtaking, lane and route violation, obstruction, use of a mechanically deficient vehicle and mobile phone use while driving. Covid-19 regulations include a 50% loading capacity, social distancing and face mask use for all passengers. Passengers should use hand sanitizer or wash hands, and caution their drivers whenever they attempt to break the rules.
18.12.2020. The Nigerian government declares the highest number of covid-19 cases since February with 930 cases in one day. The minister of health warned that many people will want to travel during the festive season. He urged everyone to stay where they are, unless they have an urgent need to travel, and not to visit people, unless necessary.
17.12. 2020. In Nigeria there is a nation-wide curfew from 1 am to 4 am. Bars and nightclubs must be shut. Outdoor sporting activities can resume, but public gatherings remain restricted. Gatherings in enclosed spaces are limited to 50 people with the use of facemasks and social distancing measures. Civil servants must resume work at public offices. Domestic flights and interstate travel have resumed in Nigeria. Some academic activities can restart. International flights can resume only at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (in Lagos) and Nnamdi Azikwa International Airport (ABV) in Abuja. Travellers must display a negative PCR test taken within 5 days and all travellers must self-isolate for 7 days regardless of the test.
15.12.2020. The minister of communications and digital economy, Isa Pantami, said that his minister will work with the federal government to set up ‘Smart cities’ in major cities such as Abuja, which will digitalise the entire city with the aim to improve digital transactions and security.
7.12.2020. The Federal government discloses the requirements that applicants of a 30,000 transport grant are expected to meet. The scheme is meant for uber, bolt (ride sharing), keke (tricycle) riders, okada riders (motorbike) and cart pushers among others. They are required to apply through registered organisations such as the okada or keke association or National Union of Transport workers. More details listed in the weblink. https://nairametrics.com/2020/12/08/survival-fund-fg-pays-59000-artisan-beneficiaries-across-24-states-in-nigeria/
8.12.2020. 59.000 artisan beneficiaries have been paid across 24 states as part of the FCT survival fund. Artisans and transport business operators are targeted through the scheme to help reduce the loss of income during the covid-19 pandemic
Other
15.12.2020. Travellers in Nigeria decry the sudden increase in airfares and urged the government to intervene. Airfares have gone up with 100-120% in the last week
9.12.2020. The Afri-China Media Centre urges the government to replicate the Abuja integrated transport system (such as the railway linking Abuja to Kaduna) to other states which might improve congestion and other transport issues.
Links
https://leadership.ng/covid-19-another-lockdown-imminent-as-fg-imposes-5-week-restrictions/?amp=1
Current cases (3.12.2020): 67.838
Draft report Abuja. 19 Nov-4. Dec 2020
Current deaths (3.12.2020): 1176
Abuja
Government initiatives
1.12.2020. The Federal Government rolls out a grant for transport operators to overcome the challenges of the covid-19 pandemic. The track will give a one-off grant (Naira 30.000) to qualified individuals operating in the transport sector.
30.11.2020 The president rolls out an Autogas programme with the vision of making gas the first choice, as a cheaper and greener form of energy in 2021.
24.11.2020. On the 25th November 16 days of activism against gender-based violence will begin. The federal and state levels have established a tool for gender-based violence data management. It will document forms of violence against women and girls.
24.11.2020. The minister of transport has apologised to Nigerians for the breakdown of the Abuja-Kaduna train breaking down between the 18.11. and 20.11.2020. The ministry has invited the Chinese to fix the mechanical problem.
19.11.2020. Military and police control Abuja – Kaduna road to prevent abductions.
18.11.2020. The federal government will slash import duties on tractors, buses and others in the financial bill of 2020 to cushion the current economic conditions. This will include tax incentives including import duty reductions from 35 to 10%, and 0% on tractors, transport vehicles and co, and a 50% reduction of minimal tax.
Other
4.12.2020. The VSF (A covid-19 Victims support fund) foundation is supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged members of the community with a funding scheme that makes up N.1.3 billion.
1.12.2020. The management of the Abuja metro light rail have said that they will commence operations as soon as the federal government will lift restrictions. The operations of the metro were suspended due to covid-19.
27.11.2020. Qatar airways commenced a flight to Abuja with the first female (Nigerian) Boeing 787 pilot.
25.11.2020. In connection with the UN’s international day for the elimination of violence against women, traditional and religious leaders urged men to protect the rights of women and girls at a summit for men (but open to women).
23.11.2020. The Chairman Senate Committee on Aviation said that airlines are cutting corners to run their airlines, which could put safety measures at risk.
25.11.2020. The Vice President of the World Federation of Engineering Organisation presented at a meeting organised by Maitama Abuja Chapter of the Nigerian society of engineers that women could be empowered to fix the challenges of the power sector.
Links:
https://technext.ng/2020/12/04/how-to-apply-for-n3-3-billion-covid-19-victims-support-fund/
https://www.pulse.ng/business/survival-fund-fg-rolls-out-grant-for-transport-operators/1ljyt4y
https://www.voanews.com/episode/nigerian-men-urged-help-stop-gender-based-violence-4498356
Nigeria (3 November to 18 November 2020)
Current cases 18.11.2020: 65.693
Current deaths 18.11.2020: 1163
Government initiatives:
18.11.2020. Armed policemen have taken over a roundabout in Abuja where expected #End Sars protests are expected to be held. After a closed-door meeting with security forces, the president announced that he would not allow such protests to take place.
13.11.2020. The government in Nigeria is in the process of accessing a World Bank loan of 750 million dollars intended to stimulate the economy and support the most vulnerable households due to the covid-19 pandemic.
12.11.2020. The government in Nigeria orders air passengers to pay for a repeat PCR test 7 days after arriving in Nigeria in addition to the test conducted before travel (5 days before departure).
12.11.2020. Mr. Tola Johnson the special assistant to the president on micro, small and medium enterprises said that the federal government have installed monitoring processes to assess the impact of N75 billion survival Fund Scheme intended for small businesses during the covid-19 pandemic. There are 4.500 beneficiaries in the transport sector, and 4500 in the artisan sector.
3.11.2020. The federal government rejects the claim that #EndSars some protesters should be put on a ‘no fly’ list claiming it was fake news.
Other
17.11.2020. Kidnappers blocked the route from Abuja-Kaduna and Kaduna to Abuja four times.
11.11.2020. The green light initiative has started training 360 ambulance truck drivers in Abuja. It is a 3-day course focusing on safety during covid-19, such as appropriate use of PPE or road safety measures.
10.11.2020. Over N1billion worth of vehicles were removed illegally in Abuja during the #EndSars protest. Moreover, solar panels were also stolen, and an electricity transformer.
7.11.2020. The railway cooperation (NRC) announced a revenue of N1.4. billion which is less than the projected revenue of N.4.4. billion for the same period.
Links
https://nairametrics.com/2020/11/12/covid-19-fg-orders-air-passengers-to-pay-for-repeat-pcr-tests/
https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2020/11/12/fg-to-monitor-impact-of-survival-fund-on-msmes/
https://nairametrics.com/2020/11/03/endsars-fg-denies-placing-protesters-on-no-fly-list/
Draft report 17 october -2 November
Nigeria, Abuja
Current cases in Nigeria (2.11.2020): 62964
Current deaths in Nigeria (2.11.2020): 1146
Government initiatives
25.10.2020. The police in Nigeria use all their forces to stop street violence following the protests concerning SARS (Special Anti-Robbery Squad) – a protest that is about stopping police violence. President Buhari dissolved the SARS unit, days later, but the #EndSARS protestors want wider reforms in the way country is governed. Unarmed protestors were shot in Lagos on Tuesday. Amnesty International says that security forces have killed 12 people.
19.10.2020.The FCT government says that they have offered free business registration for micro, small and medium enterprises under its survival fund scheme.
Other
29.10.2020. Filling stations had been shut on Monday the 25th but resumed to full operations on the following Thursday. The #EndSARS protest had forced tank drivers to suspend their the movement of their petroleum trucks, due to angry protestors destructing vehicles.
27.10.2020. People invaded the Kuje Area council in Abuja in search of covid-19 palliatives as well as 100 motorcycles parked within the premises. The council’s chairman, however, had evacuated these the night before. All the fuel stations were shut down, and residents were staying indoors.
26.10.2020. The general manager of uber in Nigeria explains the challenges of the company during the pandemic. First of all the company was hit by movement restrictions, but recently the #EndSARS protests has restricted the full operation of uber due to some routes being blocked by protestors.
26.10.2020. Airlines resume following the disruption caused by the #EndSars movement, e.g flights coming to Abuja. The operators push for a disimbursement of N27 billion assist the industry through an intervention fund and the airlines were expected to get N10 billion from the government. The delay in the release of this money has caused some suspicion that the funds might have been diverted.
25.10.2020. Young people invaded warehouses in Abuja carting away covid-19 palliatives (Idu Industrial Layout taking several items such as bags of rice, matrasses, cereals and textiles. On Saturday the 24th young people had attempted to invade Cyprian Ekwensi Centre for Arts Culture, Abuja without success. Following this, the minister of state (FCT) had assured residents that palliative items were safe.
25.10.2020 The Socio-economic rights and accountability project (Serap) has asked the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate the hoarding surrounding the hoarding of covid-19 palliatives in warehouses in various states.
22.10.2020. Transportation costs have increased across the country in 2020, especially in Abuja, where the highest bus fare intercity is N4,315.22
14.10.2020. During an otherwise peaceful protest in Abuja (#EndSARs), more violent groups occupied the Berger roundabout and destroyed vehicles nearby.
Links
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-54678345
https://www.pulse.ng/business/fg-offers-free-business-registration-for-250000-msmes/f03vnds
https://punchng.com/relief-as-fuel-queues-disappear-in-fct/
https://guardian.ng/business-services/airlines-resume-seek-release-of-n27-billion-bailout/
Draft report 30 Sep-16 October
Current cases (16.10.2020): 60.982
Current deaths (16.10.2020): 1116
15.10.2020. The FCT bans street demonstrations following strikes about police violence, due it the strikes being in breach with coronavirus regulations
10.6.2020. Registered road transport unions will be able to benefit from the government’s N10 billion intervention fund for road transport workers and operators. Unregistered unions will not be able to.
8.10.2020. Schools are expected to resume on the 11 October. Pupils are urged to comply with covid-19 regulations
5.10.2020. The government in Nigeria approves increasing the amount of passengers on flights from 116 to 200.
4.10.2020. The national coordinator of the presidential taskforce has said that 27.000 passengers have arrived in Nigeria during the coronavirus pandemic. Dr. Sani Aliyu had explained at a webinar that free testing is not available as the government cannot afford it. The government is trying to push down the price in private laboratories for testing.
The government plans to ban vessels from operating in Nigerian waters unless they have a license (this can take 3 months)
30.9.2020. The governing Council of Public Transport Owners of Nigeria Association (PTONA) called on the minister of state for transportation to use her office to direct for quick disbursement of the covid-19 palliative fund.
Other
11.10.2020. Gunmen attack Pegi community in Abuja, including a former chairman of the local government area and the local transport officer.
8.10.2020. The association of private transport owners in Nigeria said that it might be forced to increase fares by 500% over multiple taxes due to needing this money for their survival. Their association’s spokesperson, Audu Gaddo, said that the government is making is impossible for operators to operate properly. Audu Gaddo suggested that roads need to be improved, unwanted harassment by law enforcement officers should be stopped, and insecurity issues should be addressed.
9.10.2020. The Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC) plans to collaborate with the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) in an effort to develop transport infrastructure projects in the country, including for instance truck transit parks.
9.10.2020. Mr. Fidet Okhiria, from the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), says that they will begin to issue electronic tickets by November 2020.
Links
https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/fgs-n10bn-palliative-for-registered-road-transport-unions/sfzy1wl
https://guardian.ng/news/transporters-plan-500-fares-hike-over-multiple-taxation/
https://allafrica.com/stories/202010090167.html
https://guardian.ng/news/transporters-plan-500-fares-hike-over-multiple-taxation/
https://allafrica.com/stories/202010090191.html
https://allafrica.com/stories/202010050037.html
Draft report 16-29 September
Nigeria, Abuja.
Current cases in Nigeria (29.9.2020): 68.460
Current deaths in https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/ Nigeria (29.9.2020): 1,111
Government initiatives
29.9.2020. Gov. Simon Lalong of Plateau has inaugurated Max air flights from Abuja to Jos that will fly three times weekly
24.9.2020. The ministry of finance is working on rolling out tax incentives intended to spur growth in the maritime industry.
22.9.2020. The federal capital territory demolished about 1000 makeshift houses around Kukwuaba district railway corridor due to the perceived security threat.
22.9.2020 The transport minister Amaechi has stated that it is important to invest in railways and seaports to boost the economy.
19.9.2020. The Nigerian minister of health has cautioned against non-adherence to covid-19 rules in Nigeria and has warned them that the virus is real, and there is a second wave in other countries which should be prevented.
18.9.2020 The Emirate airlines has been included in the list of flights that are restricted from entering Nigeria to prevent the spread of covid-19.
The presidential task force has mandated schools to carry out weekly risk assessments on covid-19. State and local governments should conduct monthly or quarterly risk assessments.
15.9.2020. The federal government said that all domestic flights are now open for operation. However, operators that are flying into private airports need to know the status of such airports.
Other
28.9.2020. Two major labour groups have suspended a nationwide protest (about the increased petrol and electricity prices) after a meeting with a government team. The Nigerian Labour team and the Trade Union congress have agreed to delay the application of a cost reflective electricity tariff for two weeks.
Experts in the railway sector are encouraging private sector involvement in Nigeria’s rail services and have asked the government to repeal the 1955 Railway act. The experts revealed that only one rail line has been added since independence (Abuja-Kaduna) and that increased investment would boost the nation’s economy instead of the state having monopoly.
25.9.2020. Travellers complain that covid-19 rules have been stringent and inefficient making it difficult for them to abide by the rules. Government health institutions could not conduct tests for travellers, but tests had been outsourced to private hospitals and laboratories. Passengers have complained that the tests are expensive N50,450 and that it is difficult to access the Nigeria Centre for Decease control.
22.9.2020. The Nigerian association of Road Transport workers instructs its members to end the strike after the intervention of the leadership of the Nigerian Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the department of state services (DDC).The union said it was satisfied with the commitments from the government bodies.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) plans a strike and protest on the September 28 2020 due to increases in electricity tariff and fuel prices that have not been reduced by the government.
21.9.2020. The Nigerian Association of Road Transport owners ordered tanker drivers to halt operations nationwide on the 22.9.2020 due to the Federal Government’s ban on petroleum trucks above 45,000 from plying Nigerian roads.
22.9.2020. An editor of the guardian is critical of new measures that has stripped many Nigerians of their means of livelihood and taken a toll of transport fares and food. There has been a 100 % increase in electricity tariff. In addition, there has been a pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) with a new depot price of N151.56 per litre from N138.62 per litre. Previously, there had also been an increase in the Value Added Tax (VAT) from five per cent to 7.5 per cent.
15.9.2020. The Nigerian railway commissions denies reports that there were bandit attacks on the Abuja-Kaduna train on Monday. According to the commission it was hoodlums throwing stones.
Links
https://allafrica.com/stories/202009240538.html
http://venturesafrica.com/nigerias-labour-suspends-planned-strike-government-agreeement/
https://theeagleonline.com.ng/nigeria60-experts-call-for-repeal-of-railway-act/
https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2020/09/25/challenges-of-international-air-travel/
https://transportday.com.ng/tanker-drivers-strike-ban/
https://www.blueprint.ng/fcta-to-demolish-2400-abuja-houses-on-railway-corridors/
https://punchng.com/petrol-scarcity-looms-as-narto-begins-strike-tuesday/
https://guardian.ng/opinion/of-obnoxious-economic-policies-and-plight-of-nigerians/
https://investorsking.com/fg-includes-emirates-airlines-in-restricted-flights/
https://guardian.ng/news/nrc-denies-report-of-bandits-attacks-on-abuja-kaduna-train/
https://investorsking.com/fg-says-all-airports-are-now-open-for-domestic-flight-operations/
Draft report 1-15 September 2020
Nigeria, Abuja
Current cases in Nigeria 15.9.2020: 56.388
Current deaths in Nigeria 15.9.2020:1,083
Government initiatives:
14.9.2020. The Nigerian government has explained that their decision to ban certain airlines is not motivated by politics, but based on the capacity to handle a certain amount of passengers. Air France, KLM, Etihad, Rwandair, Lufthansa, TAAG Angola Airlines, Air Namibia, and Royal Air Maroc have been denied access .Domestic flights will no longer need approval for flight operations.
A week after international flights have resumed, fares have gone up by 200% on some routes. Moreover, seats are often unavailable and flights fail to keep up to schedule. Airlines reschedule flights to ensure the maximum 200 passenger rule. The protocols state that a passenger must have a negative covid-19 test and order a new one on arrival.
10.9.2020. The Nigerian economic summit has charged the government in Nigeria to open its land borders due to the impact on economic activity and employment. The president closed the country’s land borders with Benin to stop smuggling in August 2019 (first to imported rice and later to all goods). This has lead to increased food prices and spiked inflation.
9.9.2020. The UN urges the Nigerian government to ensure that safety procedures are in place for the opening of schools. 46 million primary and secondary learners have been affected. The Nigerian government have directed school administrations to communicate with parents and students regarding safety protocols.
8.9.2020. A flight from Addis Ababa landed in Abuja. The tests cost 42,500 Naira and must be conducted within 7 days of arrival.
7.9.2020.On Monday the 7.9.2020 in Abuja president Buhari spoke about the rising petrol and electricity prices and assured the public of the government’s willingness to provide stable electricity to industries. He also said that the government is working on improving the quality of roads, rail, air and water transport infrastructure.
7.9.2020. The first international flight landed in Lagos after five months of shutdown. Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja was set to open on the 5th September, but there were no flights on the 6th. Strict protocols have been put in place for the reopening. At each gate there are water supplies for people to wash their hands, bags are being sanitized and temperatures are being checked.
Other
6.9.2020. The Emirates airline have announced that they will resume passenger services to Abuja on the 9 September.
3.9.2020. The national bureau of statistics has revealed that 70% of households in Rivers, Abuja, have experienced food insecurity. The number of people engaged in business in June/July 2020 is lower than before covid-19. Even though some workers have resumed work, their incomes are still precarious. The new rate of unemployment is 27.1.%
4.9.2020. Airfrance, KLM, Etihad, Rwandair, Lufthansa, TAAG Angola Airlines, Air Namibia, and Royal Air Maroc have been denied entrance into the country. In August Nigeria vowed to implement a reciprocity clause that banned flights that had also put similar bans on Nigerian airlines.
3.9.2020. The price of petrol has increased more than three times in three months. In addition to this the interest rates of savings have reduced affecting the poor and vulnerable. The Nigerian labour congress threatens industrial action.
The presidential taskforce has reviewed the curfew that is implemented across the country. The new curfew will be from 12 midnight until 4 am. I April the curfew was from 8pm to 6am
2.9.2020. The federative executive council have approved N13 billion for the automized safety equipment at Abuja, Lagos, Kano and Port Harcourt airports, e.g refurbishing the safe tour that would make the airport more efficient.
The presidential taskforce havs met ambassadors from countries with high levels of coronavirus. This meeting was part of the preparation for opening the Nigerian airspace for international travel which has been shut since March 2020.
Links
https://guardian.ng/news/200-per-cent-fare-hike-covid-19-protocols-put-air-travel-in-disarray/
https://guardian.ng/news/nigerias-border-closure-not-good-for-regional-trade-says-nesg/
https://nairametrics.com/2020/09/03/covid-19-fg-reviews-nationwide-curfew-to-12am-4am/
https://guardian.ng/news/fec-approves-n13bn-for-automation-of-4-airports-3-1bn-for-ncs/
https://punchng.com/international-flights-ptf-meets-foreign-envoys/
Report 18 August to 1 September 2020.
Nigeria, Abuja
Current cases (1.9.2020): 54,008
Current deaths (1.9.2020): 1,013
Government initiatives
1.9.2020. Interstate commercial operations were officially started in Lagos at the Terminal One of the Oshodi transport interchange. 21 ticketing booths have been created spanning eg. FCT, Abuja and other areas of Nigeria.
27.8.2020. The federal government postpones international flights billed for the 27 August 2020 and have postponed flights until the 5 September 2020.
26.8.2020. The federal government has approved a fund (N10 billion) to cushion the sufferings of road transport workers and operators that are suffering during the covid-19 pandemic.
25.8.2020. The government announces that international travellers who evade covid-19 tests in Nigeria will be put on the travel watch list or have their passports suspended. Airlines who fail to ensure that passengers have negative covid-19 tests risk being fined 3,500 dollars per passenger. No date has been set yet for the full resumption of schools.
24.8.2020. The minister of aviation declares that that the aviation sector will continue to record a sharp decline until the fourth quarter of 2021 and maybe the first quarter of 2022.
18.8.2020. The minister of transport in Nigeria says that 150 Nigerian engineers are being trained in China to operate the railway between Lagos and Ibadan. 560 Chinese out of 20.000 workers have been hired to work on the railway in Nigeria.
Other
31.8.2020 Faan workers protest in Lagos following concession agreements for Nigeria’s four airports, fighting for their employment rights. (National Union of Air Transport Employees, Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals and Air Transport Service Senior Staff Association). The concession plan will force many staff to be fired and the future of those that retire will be uncertain.
24.8.2020. The government’s plan to have reduced flights in Nigeria stirs angst in the airline industry. No plans have been set out which flights can operate. The guardian newspaper suggests that there might be a plot to direct airline transport to Abuja. The medical response team in Lagos is wary of the new travel protocols that might increase infection rates. The new protocol leaves quarantine and testing at the discretion of the travellers and leaves travellers with unrestricted access to the country before their covid-19 status is known.
20.8.2020. The latest data released on unemployment in Nigeria by the National Bureau of Statistics indicated that women ranked the highest when it comes to unemployment. Unemployment has risen from 25.9 % in 2018 to 31 % for women in 2020, and for men from 15.4.% in 2018 to 26,3 % in 2020.
Links
https://thenationonlineng.net/oshodi-interchange-lagos-flags-off-inter-state-commercial-operation/
https://punchng.com/international-passengers-who-evade-nigerian-tests-face-travel-ban-ptf/?amp=1
https://guardian.ng/business-services/pruning-of-daily-flights-to-lagos-abuja-airports-stirs-angst/
https://nairametrics.com/2020/08/18/amaechi-says-150-nigerians-being-trained-as-engineers-in-china/
Draft report 1-17 August. Nigeria, Abuja.
Current cases in country (17.8.2020): 49,068
Current deaths in country (17.8.2020): 975
Government interventions:
17.8.2020: The Nigerian Aviation minister announced on twitter that international flights will be open from Abuja and Lagos airports from the 29.8.2020.
The Minister of State in the Nigerian Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Dr. Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu, has assured residents that despite the impact of COVID-19 pandemic, the administration would not fail to provide essential services such as road, water and other infrastructural projects in satellite towns.
11.8.2020. The government in Nigeria has disclosed that covid-19 protocols in the transport sector will be enforced by the Federal Road Safety commission. In the new phase of the national response to the pandemic, the government will be focusing on levels of compliance within the education and transport sector.
6.8.2020. The current measures that were put in force on 1 June to prevent the spread of covid-19 have been extended. The president approved that state governments should be encouraged to collaborate with local governments to improve community sensitization regarding mask use – and should intensify measures such as contact tracing, grassroots mobilisation and risk communication. The president announced that these measures are aimed at eventually reopening for international air travel, rail transportation, for exit classes to resume ahead of examinations, for civil servants to resume work (grade level 12) and for recreational parks to open with supervised exercises. The aviation minister said that international air travel will open in Nigeria within weeks without giving a specific date.The federal capital territory administration has made it clear to schools, that any school within the territory that violates the covid-19 guidelines, will be shut.
4.8.2020. The federal Capital Territory Administration announced that schools will reopen for students in their final classes on the 4 august (JSS3 and SS3).
3.8.2020: The president announced that he will not be receiving Sallah homage (eid) by religious or party/government leaders and encourages citizens to use facemasks and avoid large gatherings.
Other
15.8.2020. The Nigeria Railway Cooperation discloses that it has collaborated with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria to train its personnel on screening passengers and their luggage.
6.8.2020. A Nigerian Transport startup, Plentywaka, has raised 300.000 dollars to transform the transport system in Nigeria with improved mapping technology, and has expanded its services to Abuja (five routes, and free travel for a week). Routes will include Lugbe to Area 1. Passengers will be able to schedule their rides from their preferred locations.
5.8.2020. In an article in Good Governance Africa, several local respondents quoted in the article emphasise that social distancing is not being adhered to. Shoppers are required to use facemasks when entering the markets but when in the market, enforcement is not evident. Commercial taxis are not allowed to carry more than 3 passengers by the protocol, but some drivers are allowing 5-6 passengers. Several emphasise that they have to wait to a long time to get a commercial taxi with 3 passengers.
Five days into the resumption of the Kaduna-Abuja train, less than 5000 passengers have used the service (Kaduna-Abuja and Abuja-Kaduna)
Links
https://guardian.ng/news/lagos-abuja-airports-to-resume-international-flights-august-29-says-fg/
https://leadership.ng/2020/08/06/nigerian-startup-secures-300000-transport-investment/
https://punchng.com/fg-retains-curfew-extends-eased-lockdown-by-four-weeks/
https://www.dailytrust.com.ng/high-fare-abuja-kaduna-train-records-low-patronage.html
https://www.theabujatimes.com/covid-19-forces-buhari-to-suspend-sallah-homage/
https://www.von.gov.ng/covid-19-nigeria-to-retain-phase-two-ease-of-lockdown/
https://www.von.gov.ng/fcta-to-shut-down-schools-violating-covid-19-guidelines/
Draft report Abuja 18.7.2020-31.7.2020
Current cases in Nigeria [31.7.2020]: 42,689
Current deaths in Nigeria [31.7.2020]: 878
Government initiatives
28.7.2020. Nigerians can apply for a UK travel visa, as the visa centres will reopen.
27.7.2020. The government released new guidelines regarding train travel. Passengers should wear masks and security officials will ask the train driver to disembark passengers, if they do not comply. The mask must cover both the nose and the mouth, the minister of transportation emphasises. Apart from using the bathroom, passengers cannot freely move around the train.
The Federal Government extended the easing of the lockdown (phase two) by one week. The second phasing was supposed to give way to the third phasing by the end of July but the secretary to the government of federation announced that this was due to people breaching lockdown regulations and not respecting the guidelines. The 10pm to 4 am curfew will remain. Commercial drivers are only allowed to take passengers up to 60% capacity.
The government announced that the reopening of schools will be on the 4 August for graduating students and the 17 August for the West African Senior school certificate examination. Secondary schools will open for exist classes only.
The federal road safety commission has tasked fleet and public transport operators to adhere strictly to Nigeria Centre for Decease control protocol to slow down the spread of covid 19. The sector commander outlined that motorists have to observe all safety protocols (hand washing before and at disembarking points, use sanitisers, wear facemasks, and observe social distancing. Public transport companies should provide temperature checks, clean the surface of their vehicles with bleach and put up protective barriers between passengers and fare cashiers. 7 people should only be carried in 10-seater vehicles, 9 by 13 seater busses and two in a row inside luxury busses. Passengers should not stand.
26 July. President Buhari has approved a 100% increase in the train fares on the Kaduna to Abuja train. The hike in prices is to make sure that physical distancing measures are maintained. When being asked if this was a burden to the poor, the transport minister responded that it was better than being kidnapped on the Kaduna-Abuja road and having to pay ransom.
Other
24.7.2020. Kojo Motors United, the owners of the Yotong busses Nigeria, have started to distribute facemasks and other safety materials to the users of their busses.
https://www.dailytrust.com.ng/covid-19-fg-releases-guidelines-for-rail-travels.html
https://nairametrics.com/2020/07/27/just-in-fg-extends-phase-2-of-eased-covid-19-lockdown/
https://clearviewtv.com.ng/fg-orders-reopening-of-schools-announces-aug-17-for-wassce/
https://guardian.ng/features/executive-motoring/auto-dealers-join-fg-in-fight-against-covid-19/
https://nnn.com.ng/covid-19-frsc-sensitises-transporters-on-safety-protocols/
Draft report Abuja 4.7.2020-17.2020
Current cases in country 17.7.2020: 34,854
Current deaths in country 17.7.2020: 769
Government initiatives
14.7.2020 Schools are still shut, but the ministry of Education in Abuja have released guidelines regarding social distancing (2 metres) at school – whenever possible.
13.7.2020: Previously the government advised travellers to arrive at airports 3 hours before- now they have reduced it to 90 minutes. Passengers are advised to check in online.
12.7.2020: The minister of aviation has said that nationwide domestic flights can resume on the 15 July. Passengers should keep a 2-metre distance in the airport, including on the busses.
Other
15.7.2020: The national bureau of statistics says that 24 % of households do not have enough soap and water for hand washing exposing them more to the virus. This is based on the national longitudinal phone survey.
9.7.2020. Pauline Tallen, Peter Hawkins and Comfort Lamptey publish a blog post on how women and girls e.g. in Abuja are experiencing violence and suffer in silence due to social stigma.
6.7.2020. The federal road safety corps and road transport unions have adopted resolutions towards adopting covid-19 protocols. In the statement it says that all public transport operators should sanitize their parks and terminals regularly. Notices should be placed in parks regarding safety procedures and temperature measurements should be provided. All interstate and intercity travel should be organised by registered or organised operating terminals. There should also be protective barriers at the terminals and any luggage should be disinfected.
Weblinks
Covid 19 Report Nigeria 23 June to 3 July 2020:
Current cases (3.7.2020): 27.110
Current deaths (3.7.2020): 616
Government initiatives
2 July: The Minister of State for Transportation, Sen. Gbemisola Saraki announced in a statement on the 2 July that transporters flouting interstate travel protocols could have their permits withdrawn.
1 July: The Nigerian government has announced that domestic flights will commence on the 8 July.
30 June: The government lifts the interstate travel ban and interstate travel can resume with 50% capacity. The president also declared that schools will remain closed, but continue with e-learning.
22 June: The transport minister announced that they are not in a hurry to restart the train service due to covid-19. When the trains operate e.g. on the Abuja-Kaduna road, passengers will have to comply with safety operations.
Other
1July: In Utaka park in Abuja (a transport hub for interstate transport) operations have commenced following the lifting of the interstate ban.
The acting general secretary of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) says it is not their intention to increase transport fares. The union has previously requested a transport subsidy from the government, or they will increase transport fares.
30June 2020: A transportation company in Nigeria called Peace Mass Transit (PMT) announced that it will resume interstate travel in accordance with government advice without increasing the fares, with 50% carriage.
28 June: Ruiti Agbero Limited, a service provider, has launched an app called Agbero that allows customers to pay once and on their phones.
22 June: Workers protest at the health department in Abuja over claims of unpaid rights. A truck driver for instance said that he had not been paid for three months. Workers in detentions centres have been paid, but 5 drivers had been infected with covid-19 but nothing had been given to them.
Links
https://guardian.ng/news/fg-lifts-ban-on-interstate-travel-okays-local-flights/
https://punchng.com/covid-19-interstate-travel-resumes-at-abuja-parks/
https://www.bbc.com/hausa/labarai-53141683
Draft report (6 June to 23 June 2020)
Nigeria
Current cases (23.6.2020): 20,919
Current deaths (23.6.2020): 525
Government initiatives
13.6.2020. The vice president’s committee on economic sustainability has warned that 39.4 million people may lose their jobs at the end of 2020. Covid-19 has had a negative impact on trade, tourism and the transport sector.
The minister of transportation says that China has been very helpful to the federal government in terms of reimbursement of cash to support railway construction.
8.6.2020. Passengers must have a negative covid-19 test before boarding a flight. These must be done within two weeks, otherwise they will not be valid. Passengers are required to fill a health form. Passengers must queue in an orderly manner in Nigeria, wear a facemask and follow hygiene measures. Passengers are advised to self-isolate for 14 days.
Other
18.5.2020. Indications emerged that the airport is not ready to open for operations on the 21 June. There is a special need for financial interventions and the following of specific protocols. Most aviation workers have not been paid their wages.
13.6.2020. Transport operators lose 200 billion Naira in 3 months’ time due to the lockdown restrictions in the transport sector. Many transport companies have been unable to pay their staff, and thousands of vehicles have been parked for three months. Once they restart numerous technical problems may arise. Transport associations, such as the private taxi companies of Nigeria call for government assistance, and argued that the road transport companies have a stronger claim to the government
12.6.2020. The owners of the largest fleet of vehicles have called for the government to lift the interstate ban. The president of the Public Transport Owners of Nigeria Association (PTONA) said transportation was one of four most important elements for human existence after food, water and shelter, and pointed out that the government has an important role to play in facilitating transport. The longer the ban, the more businesses will die permanently.
Links
http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-06/19/c_139150071.htm
https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/39-4m-people-may-lose-jobs-to-covid-19-osinbajo-panel-warns/
https://covid19.ncdc.gov.ng/advisory/
Draft report (23 May to 5 June 2020)
Nigeria
Confirmed cases (5.6.2020): 11.516
Confirmed deaths (5.6.2020): 323
Government initiatives:
2.6.2020: The federal government has received coaches and locomotives from China and will be deployed when operations start. Some coaches are still on route to Abuja. The government has said that domestic flights might open on the 21.6.2020 but have not said when international flights might reopen. Some offices can open from 9-18.00 but social hygiene measures and social distancing has to be ensured. Business activities can take place three days a week (Monday, Wednesday and Friday) from 7-16. People must still wear face masks in public, and there are still restrictions on social and religious gatherings – those who break these rules could face fines/imprisonment. Schools and restaurants are still closed. Interstate passenger travel is banned.
Other:
3.6. Our in-country team reports that transport fares in Abuja have increased.
1.6. An article in Aljazera reports that social distancing is largely ignored in Abuja and face masks are used minimally.
30.5.2020. The premium times website reports increased sexual and domestic violence against women in Nigeria during lockdown.
24.5.2020. The CEO of the planet project united argues that the transport sector in Nigeria will suffer because of covid19.
Links
https://aljazirahnews.com/covid-19-and-massive-flouting-of-face-mask-use-in-fct/
Draft report (9th May to 22 May 2020
Nigeria
Current cases (22.5.2020): 7016
Current deaths (22.5.2020): 211
Government initiatives
21.5.2020: The federal government appeals to traders not to increase food prices and transportation, and appealed to the union for transport workers (NURTW) to ensure that guidelines are followed.
17.5.2020: Nigeria impounded a plane operated by a British company for allegedly contravening a flight ban imposed to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
15.5.2020: The ban on interstate travel remains. Nigerians still have to wear facemasks in public places. The Nigerian Travel Agency (NANTA) reports that the travel agency has lost more than 180 billion naira, and thousands of jobs. The e-hailing services have also been hardly hit. Bolt for instance only does deliveries whereas uber has halted its operations.
10.5.2020: 160 Nigerians were evacuated from the United States and landed in Abuja
Other
20.5.2020: An article on the nationallight homepage (below) suggests that people in the transport sector will undergo economic hardship due to the interstate ban. Cargo employees have complained that some of their goods have gone bad. Some travellers have been arrested for hiding in trucks
17.5.2020: An article published on Naira metrics suggests that the airline industry in Nigeria will undergo many changes (e.g. in terms of travel destinations, social distancing and technology use), and many jobs will be lost in the aviation industry – and taken over by technology.
Links
https://nairametrics.com/2020/05/17/covid-19-the-new-normal-for-nigerian-aviation-industry/
Draft report (25 April-8 May 2020)
PLEASE NOTE: This document contains only provisional information for each country, based on the information that our in-country teams have been able to access. We hope to provide updates of this information approximately at fortnightly intervals. Please click on the numbers at the bottom of the page to view the info concerning Cape Town and Tunis.
Abuja
Cases 8.5.2020: 3526. Deaths 107
Government requirements:
7.5.2020. The ban on flights has been extended for four weeks.
4.5.2020. The lockdown has been eased and people are going back to work. The president has said that the lockdown has come at a heavy cost, and people have lost their livelihoods. Shops and markets will remain open until mid-afternoon, but schools and places of worship will not be open. Shops and markets will now open until mid-afternoon and it is hoped that some people will be able to return to work.
But a ban on public gatherings remains in place and a nationwide curfew from 20:00 local time (19:00GMT) to 06:00 has been imposed. Schools and places of worship will remain closed.
Wearing of face masks while in public has been made mandatory and people must adhere to social distancing rule and other safety measures. Interstate travels has been suspended except for essential workers.
- Shops and markets will now open until mid-afternoon and it is hoped that some people will be able to return to work.
People must adhere to social distancing rule and other safety measures. Interstate travels has been suspended except for essential workers.
Travel between regions will, however, not be permitted despite the easing of the restrictions. There is a curfew between 20:00 and 06:00. In public spaces people must wear face masks, there must be mandatory temperature checks, hand washing facilities/or hand sanitizers, physical distancing of two meters. No sport and mass gatherings. Passenger flights and interstate travel (except essential) are prohibited. Nigerians abroad who are travelling to Nigeria must isolate for 14 days. Neighbourhoods and markets can stay open 3 times a week from 8 am to 3 pm. Banks and financial services can stay open from 8 to 2 pm. Government offices and corporate offices can stay open from 8 am-2 pm. Schools, churches, mosques, clubs, bars and gardens are still closed.
29.4.2020. The president encourages state governments to provide leadership and engage with relevant associations, e.g. transport associations for orderly and effective implementation of the lockdown.
Other
4.5.2020. Newspaper reports suggest that the infection rates went up, as soon as the curfew was eased. See links below.
Links
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-52526923
https://www.africanews.com/2020/05/08/nigeria-coronavirus-hub-updates-covid-19//
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/world-africa-47639452
Draft report 10 to 24 April 2020.
Abuja, Nigeria
Current cases: 981.
31 deaths (data 24.4.2020)
https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/
Government initiatives
14 April: The federal ministry of humanitarian affairs has said that N power beneficiaries in Nigeria should expect their monthly payments of 30.000 Naira. The N-power programme is a job creation and skills empowerment programme that supports young Nigerians in the whole country to develop skills to become practical solution providers for a period of two years.
7 April. Poor households (only selected) are expected to receive N20.000 monthly. The federal government has clarified how the N20,000 coronavirus lockdown palliative is being distributed.
Lockdown: matters arising
24 April Our in-country team members report that the distribution of money has caused tension as some households are selected as poor and others not with many people queuing up for the N20.000 Naira mentioned above, but not receiving the full amount. Moreover, the event was filmed on national television and social distancing did not take place, possibly contributing to more infections. Corruption and politics might influence who gets helped and not, and whether vehicle owners, who have their vehicles in police custody, will get their vehicles back. It is easier to families who are wealthy to isolate at home, but people living in the suburbs, the focus of our research, are particularly at risk, especially women, transport workers, petty traders and even security officials. In the suburbs of Abuja roads around markets and parks are packed with petty traders, pushing their ways through the crows as well as motorized vehicles (motorbike riders, lorries and taxi drivers). They are trying to sustain a living, as they cannot afford to stock up on food, and stay at home.
23 April
Our team members report that the transport of food and other household good supplies is becoming more difficult due to covid-19, even though the transport of goods is allowed. This is due to bribes (security officials), and people cannot afford to pay for this at each checkpoint. Vegetables are getting rotten, and they have no place to store them. It is also more difficult to transport livestock. Children are being transported back and forth between their families (e.g. when a husband/wife lives in another state) despite the lockdown in Abuja. There is also an increased rate of domestic violence, due to more family members living together where they used to live apart. Transport is becoming more and more expensive, as tricycles for example can only take one person at a time. A bus is only allowed 60% of its capacity. Women who cannot push their way are left stranded. Women are complaining that they used to be able to go together. Having ownership of a vehicle is better. Bus drivers and other forms of transport are still travelling on the roads in Abuja, but with fewer passengers, often dropping people outside state boundaries, as they know they cannot cross these areas. This leaves travelers stranded and women particularly vulnerable.
13 April. A taxi driver strips naked in protest to the lockdown explaining that he cannot feed his family.
4 April. The FCT task team impounds 51 cars, 9 tricycle and 46 motorcycles for violating the lockdown order, and will be in police custody until after the lockdown.
Links:
https://guardian.ng/news/n-power-beneficiaries-to-start-getting-march-stipends-from-tuesday/
https://mediadimensions.live/fct-impounds-106-vehicles-for-violating-coronavirus-lockdown/
Draft report 1-9 April 2020
Nigeria
Cases 288. Deaths 7 (10.4.2020). https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/
Government implementations
3.4. 2020. Any inter-state travel has been banned. All business except healthcare, food processor/ delivery, petroleum distributors, power companies and private security companies have been closed. Banks are temporarily shut for 14 days, including public transport. Open markets are shut but food shops, supermarkets and pharmacies can stay open. International airports and land borders have been closed, and cargo ships can enter, if they have been at sea for more than 14 days, and have no confirmed cases. The Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 has permitted the movement of fertilizers during the lockdown. A prominent legal practitioner, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, SAN, has appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari to unlock Lagos and Abuja to ease the burden for people since Lagos state has declared a 100% recovery rate.
1.4. 2020. The Federal Government directed that food markets in Lagos, Ogun and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) would be allowed to open daily for four hours, from 10:00a.m. to 2:00p.m., Every person would be confined to his or her place of residence unless strictly for the purpose of performing an essential service. Commuter services between cities and states including passenger rail services, bus services, e-hailing services, maritime and air passenger transport are suspended for the period of the lockdown in the affected states. All borders linking the two states and FCT to the rest of the country would be shut during the period of the lockdown, except for the transportation of persons on essential duties, food, fuel, manufactured goods or donated relief items. Mass gatherings are prohibited, except for funeral services. Movement between and within the affected states and FCT is restricted except for workers involved in the delivery of authorized essential services, duties, food and goods. Commuter services between cities and states including, passenger rail services, bus services, e-hailing services, maritime and air passenger transport are suspended for the period of the lockdown in the affected states. Limited transport services are allowed for the movement of workers, services and goods in response to COVID-19 and for the purpose of seeking medical attention or provision of essential services. The essential services and businesses include clinics, hospitals, food shops, fuel stations, registered repair garages, company car services for essential staff, private security companies, trucks carrying essential items, courier and distribution companies and airlines handling essential staff.
Transport associations/other
1.4.2020. Uber suspends its services in Abuja for 14 days
31.3.2020. Our in-country team members report that there are more cases of domestic abuse in the country due to people staying at home. Hawkers and other people in vulnerable jobs (e.g. working for others from hand to mouth), moreover, risk starving. They have no income, and no money to buy/stockpile food.
6.3.2020. Spare part dealers worry since their sales are affected when no people are travelling to China.Useful links
https://punchng.com/fg-exempts-fertiliser-transport-from-lockdown/
https://guardian.ng/news/fg-opens-food-markets-for-four-hours-daily-in-lagos-ogun-abuja/
1.March.-31 March Draft report
30.3.2020. The Nigerian president announced that the country will go into lockdown at 11 pm on the 30.3.2020 for a period of 14 days. Nigeria has 111 confirmed cases of the COVID-19, with 3 recovery and one death.
28.3.2020. Update from Nigerian team member: There is restriction of movement within cities, with civil servants required to conduct government affairs from home. The only sectors permitted to move in cities are health and security. Markets remain generally open. This means transport business in peri-urban is active. Federal and state governments have imposed an inter-state and inter-town travel ban.
26. 3. 2020. All schools were closed (primary, secondary and tertiary).
21.3. 2020. The government has restricted entry into Nigeria for people travelling from China, Italy, Iran, Norway, South Korea, Spain, Japan, France, Germany, the USA, the UK, Netherlands and Switzerland. This will last 4 weeks. No visas on arrival from these countries will be granted.
21.3. 2020. The in-country fieldwork has been put to a halt due to COVID-19.
1.3.2020. Screening measures have been heightened in airports (Lagos, Kano, Port Harcourt and FCT (Abuja). This includes a temperature screen and a form to fill in upon on arrival regarding symptoms and travel history. Even though travellers do not have symptoms, all travellers from any country have to self-isolate for 14 days when entering Nigeria.
Lassa fever, which is deadlier than COVID-19, might also influence the travel situation in the future.
Useful links:
https://www.hrw.org/news/2020/03/25/nigeria-covid-19-cases-rise
https://www.news24.com/Africa/News/nigeria-reports-first-coronavirus-death-20200323
https://ncdc.gov.ng/news/237/update-on-covid-19-in-nigeria
https://www.bbc.com/pidgin/live/tori-51750354
http://repots.nextierspd.com/2020/03/19/covid-19-africa-told-to-prepare-for-wo/
Women, transport and employment in Africa 