The Algerian government has announced the easing of COVID-19 restrictions in 19 wilayas, effective June 14, 2020. According to a communiqué from the Prime Minister's office, these wilayas include Tamanrasset, Tindouf, Illizi, Saida, Ghardaïa, Naama, El Bayadh, Tiaret, Guelma, Skikda, Jijel, Mostaganem, Tebessa, Tlemcen, Ain Temouchent, El Tarf, TiziOuzou, Ain Defla, and Mila. The decision was made based on the evolution of the pandemic and proposals from the scientific committee and health authorities.
In the 29 other wilayas, the government has adjusted the curfew hours from 8pm to 5am. The wilayas affected by the adjusted curfew include Boumerdes, Souk Ahras, Tissemsilt, Djelfa, Mascara, Oum El-Bouaghi, Batna, Bouira, Relizane, Biskra, Khenchela, M’sila, Chlef, Sidi Bel Abbes, Médéa, Blida, Bordj Bou Arreridj, Tipaza, Ouargla, Bechar, Alger, Constantine, Oran, Sétif, Annaba, Bejaia, Adrar, Laghouat, and El Oued. The government will review the effectiveness of these measures after 15 days.
The government has also lifted the measure of putting 50% of employees in the public and private sectors on exceptional paid leave, for companies that can ensure transportation for their staff and meet health protection conditions. Additionally, the measure of putting 50% of employees in public institutions and administrations on exceptional paid leave has been lifted, except for pregnant women and those with young children.
Public transportation, including buses and trams, will resume operations across the country, subject to certain health and safety measures. These measures include mandatory mask-wearing, disinfecting seats and handles, and limiting the number of passengers to seated capacity only. Taxis will also resume operations, with drivers and passengers required to wear masks and taxis limited to one passenger at a time.
Certain commercial, economic, and social activities will also resume. These include hair salons, clothing and shoe stores, driving schools, and vehicle rentals. Hair salons will operate by appointment, with strict mask-wearing and limited client capacity. Clothing and shoe stores must provide hand sanitizer and prohibit trying on clothes.
In the 19 wilayas where lockdown has been lifted, restaurants and cafes will be allowed to operate outdoors and for takeout. All businesses and services are required to implement preventive measures, including mandatory mask-wearing, displaying health guidelines, and ensuring physical distancing.
The government has emphasized that the easing of restrictions is contingent on the evolution of the pandemic and adherence to health guidelines. The measures will be reviewed and adjusted as necessary to ensure public safety.
Key points
- Algeria lifts total lockdown in 19 wilayas
- Curfew hours adjusted in 29 wilayas
- Public transportation and certain businesses resume operations with health and safety measures in place
