Vanuatu's National Covid-19 Task Force has endorsed the Government's decision to fine any businesses breaching protocols. This decision includes kava bars. Fines can be up to $4418USD.
Photo: RNZ Pac ific/ MacKenzie Smith
Individuals breaching the protocols can be fined up to $883USD.
Police Public Awareness Units have delivered warnings throughout the suburbs of Port Vila and Luganville and all Provincial Government Council Centres.
Covid protocols for buisnesses include maintaining social-distancing and providing hand-washing facilities.
Kava bar patrons traditionally sit close together, which means they are most likely to risk breaching the distancing protocols.
Kava bar owners have changed their opening hours from evening to midday to avoid breaching the order so kava drinkers can collect their drinks in bottles and take them home.