Tebogo Msimanga |
South Africa will move to alert level 1 on the 20th of September 2020 but some restrictions remain in place. Ramaphosa addressed the Nation on Wednesday night and stressed that the country’s economy and society have suffered great devastation.” But, by standing together, by remaining resolute, we have withstood it.”
President Ramaphosa urged South Africa with smartphones to download the COVID Alert mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app has been zero-rated by mobile networks, so you can download it without any data costs. The app will alert any user if they have been in close contact with any other user who has tested positive for coronavirus in the past 14 days.
Traveling into and out of South Africa for business, leisure and other travel will be allowed effective from 1 October 2020. Ramaphosa said the curfew will now be from midnight to 4 am under level 1.
Even though Rampahosa said SA is still in the midst of a deadly pandemic, he applauded front lines workers for saving lives. “Our country is already participating in three vaccine trials, demonstrating the capability of our scientific community.”
Social, religious, political and other gatherings will be permitted, as long as the number of people does not exceed 50% of the normal capacity of a venue. The sale of alcohol at retail outlets for home consumption is now permitted from Monday to Friday, from 09h00 to 17h00
Health protocols, such as washing or sanitizing of hands, social distancing and mask-wearing, will need to be strictly observed. “We cannot afford a resurgence of infections in our country. A second wave would be devastating to our country, and would again disrupt our lives and livelihoods. It is up to each and every South African to ensure that this does not happen.” said Ramaphosa.
