COVID-19 RCCE strategies for cross-border movement in Eastern and Southern Africa
This brief focuses on cross-border movement in Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA) and its implications for development of risk communication and community engagement (RCCE) strategies aimed at preventing transmission of COVID-19 in the ESA region. Cross-border traffic has been identified as a significant factor in COVID-19 transmission in Eastern and Southern Africa, and most countries in the region restricted entry to reduce importation of the virus – some even before the first local cases were identified. However, the economy and the social fabric of the region are dependent on cross-border flow of goods and people, and there is increasing concern that the impact of border closures may be as severe as, or worse than, the impact of COVID-19. As a result, countries have begun to relax COVID-19 containment measures and lift border closures, which will increase the risk of international transmission of the virus. It is essential to understand cross-border transmission dynamics and movement patterns and the behaviour of cross-border actors so that effective, contextually appropriate RCCE strategies can be formulated to reduce risk from COVID-19 both now and as borders reopen.
This brief provides ten key considerations:
- Cross-border transmission of COVID-19 is an increasing concern, particularly as countries begin to ease travel restrictions and lift border closures.
- Knowledge, attitudes, and practices influence COVID-19 control.
- Evidence from past epidemics shows that stigma may prevent people from seeking treatment for COVID-19 and other health concerns.
- Structural factors can be a barrier to cross-border COVID-19 management.
- Experience with past epidemics, including Ebola, demonstrates the importance of regional cooperation and cross-border coordination.