Location: Ghana
Event: Mandatory Use of Face Coverings in Public
On June 15, 2020, President Akufo-Addo signed Executive Instrument 164, outlining the mandatory use of face coverings in pubic:
- A face mask, face shield, or any other face covering that completely covers the nose and mouth is required when in a public place.
- The police are empowered to conduct random compliance and enforcement checks.
- A person who fails to comply with this Executive Instrument will face a fine of between Gh¢ 12,000 and Gh¢ 60,000, or a term of imprisonment of between four and ten years.
- This Executive Instrument is effective immediately and will last for not more than three months.
Ghana has confirmed more than 12,000 COVID-19 cases, with the majority of new cases due to community transmission. While the Government of Ghana has eased certain restrictions on public gatherings, all U.S. citizens should continue to follow Government of Ghana health directives, comply with all police instructions, limit their movements to essential errands, and practice social distancing.
ACTIONS TO TAKE:
- Visit the COVID-19 crisis page on travel.state.gov.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security, travel, and health updates.
- Review the President of Ghana’s speech announcing the extended border closure and phased easing on public gatherings.
- To learn what you can do to reduce your risk of contracting COVID-19, please see the CDC’s latest recommendations.
- Check with your airlines, cruise lines, or travel operators regarding any updated information about your travel plans and/or restrictions.
- Visit our U.S. Embassy in Accra’s website on COVID-19 for information on conditions in Ghana.
- Visit the Department of Homeland Security’s website on the latest travel restrictions to the United States.
- Visit Ready.gov for a list of suggested supplies to have on hand.
Assistance:
- U.S. Embassy Accra, Ghana
+(233) 30-27-41-000 24/7 for a recorded message
No. 24, Fourth Circular Rd., Cantonments, Accra
P.O. Box GP 2288
Accra, Ghana
ACSAccra@state.gov
https://gh.usembassy.gov/ - State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444 - Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
