The South African government has decided to move to alert level 2 after the country witnessed a drop in the rate of new confirmed coronavirus cases, reported Reuters.
In a televised address to the nation on Saturday, President Cyril Ramaphosa said the government has decided to ease almost all restrictions, including the lifting of ban on sales of alcohol and tobacco, from Monday. The decision was taken as the rates of new infections had fallen to an average of 5,000 a day, from a peak of 12,000 a day.
“The move to Alert Level 2 means we can remove nearly all of the restrictions on the country’s economy,” he said. “The further easing of restrictions presents us with the greatest opportunity since the start of the pandemic to breathe life into our struggling economy.”
The South African president added that activities will resume with stringent health protocols and safety precautions in place. The country implemented one of the strictest lockdown regulations in March when all borders were shut, schools were closed, and people were ordered to remain at home. Only essential workers including health workers were allowed outside. The government began to ease restrictions from June 1, including the reopening of places of worship.
“Alcohol will be permitted for on-site consumption in licensed establishments only up until 10 p.m.,’’ Ramaphosa said.
The South African president added that restrictions on international travel, as well as a curfew between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. will continue to be in effect. He said the country will not allow gatherings of more than 50 people except for funerals and religious events. Spectators will also not be allowed to attend any sporting events. He cautioned that cases could surge if people fail to maintain vigilance.
South Africa has the world’s fifth-largest virus caseload with over 583,000 cases. On Saturday, the health ministry reported a total of more than 11,600 confirmed deaths.
