Tourism and Arts Permanent Secretary has observed that the Covid-19 pandemic has changed the world from business as usual to what is now being called the New Normal.

Ministry Public Relations Officer Sakabilo Kalembwe tells Money FM News that Dr. Auxilia Ponga says the velocity with which the coronavirus spreads and its impact has been severe and has caught most governments, businesses and communities by surprise.

She stated that, “the pandemic has had a serious toll on Tourism as there are no foreign tourists coming into the country but that the Ministry is impressed that local tourism is booming.”

Dr. Ponga advised tourists to ensure they adhere to all health regulations as they visit tourism sites to prevent the disease from spreading further.

Meanwhile, Dr. Ponga called on members of staff at the Ministry to strictly adhere to Health guidelines stipulated by the Ministry of Health following a case of Covid-19 recorded at the Ministry yesterday.

She said in view of the case, all members of staff that had been working closely with the victim must stay home for self-quarantine and ensure that they wear facemasks, hand sanitize and observe social distance.

“Currently the Ministry is working with the Ministry of Health to fumigate Kwacha House and ensure that all members of staff are safe from Covid-19 as they return for work,” he said.