JOHANNESBURG – President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced the country will move to an adjusted level two lockdown with a series of sweeping measures as South Africa struggles to stop third-wave coronavirus.
Ramaphosa made the announcement Sunday evening during an address to the nation on the progress of the country’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Cabinet has decided that the country will be placed in Adjusted Alert Level 2 effective today. Curfew hours start at 11 p.m. and end at 4 a.m.,” said President Cyril Ramaphosa.
“Under the adjusted Alert Level 2, gatherings are limited to 100 indoors or 250 outdoors and the curfew begins at 11 p.m.”
“Funerals remain limited to no more than 100 people, and wakes, post-burial gatherings and gatherings after tears are still not permitted.”
The president’s speech follows a series of meetings of the National Coronavirus Command Council (NCCC), President’s Coordination Council (PCC) and Cabinet in recent days.
As South Africa rolls out its national COVID-19 vaccination programme, the government and social partners are continuously monitoring patient infection, treatment and recovery rates, as well as compliance with health and safety regulations. other preventive measures.
The speech, which was broadcast on a number of platforms open to South Africans and international audiences, was mostly subscribed to multiple platforms.
Ramaphosa also explained the reason for the move, which drew mixed feelings from both sides.
“The increase in daily cases is following the same trajectory as at the start of the previous two waves. We have seen in other countries the tragic consequences of the uncontrolled spread of the virus.
“It remains mandatory for everyone to wear a face mask covering their nose and mouth in public spaces at all times. It is a criminal offense not to do so,” he said.
