Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Update – Business Continuity Precautionary Measures

In light of the recent developments relating to the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19), the Authority wishes to inform the public about the following precautionary measures that it has put in place in the interest of the safety of its staff and the public:

1. Social Distancing:
   
   1. Cancellation of Large Meetings: Industry meetings, bilateral and compliance visits/meetings are hereby postponed with immediate effect. However, the Authority will still be available to conduct surprise inspections on a case by case basis.
   2. Discouragement of Small Meetings: Face-to-face meetings, however small, are not encouraged. It is noted that there may be some exceptional circumstances where this is unavoidable

2. Use of Digital & Telephonic Platforms for all Interactions with Stakeholders: As a precautionary measure for the protection of stakeholders as well as our staff, the Authority encourages its stakeholders and regulated entities to use telephonic communication or email instead of visiting the office physically.

3. Enhanced Precautionary Measures for Walk-in Visitors: Stakeholders who insist on physically coming to the Authority’s offices are informed that they are likely to experience delayed service delivery due to enhanced precautionary measures that the Authority has put in place to protect its staff as well as visitors.

The Authority has advised regulated entities within the non-bank financial institutions sector to limit physical contact, remain vigilant, disciplined, and observe hygiene protocols issued by the Government of Botswana.