South Africa going to Level 2

As of midnight on Monday 17 August 2020 (so actually as of Tuesday), South Africa’s National Lockdown will move to Level 2 nationwide.

President Ramaphosa addressed the nation earlier tonight, while earlier today the State of Disaster had been extended until the 15^th of September.  The President mentioned the decrease of new infections registered from around 12,000 per day only three weeks ago to 5,000 per day this past week.  The recovery rate has increased to 80%.  With currently 105,000 active cases country-wide the health system – although stretched – is coping and many ‘extra’ beds in field hospitals stand empty.  11,556 people died because of Covid-19, according to official statistics.

The main changes which come with Level 2 are as follows:

• Inter-provincial travel is now allowed, and accommodation establishments, hospitality businesses and tour operators are allowed to operate, as long as health- and safety protocols are in place.  A maximum capacity of 50% will need to be adhered to;
• The ban on sales of cigarettes will be lifted; the sale of alcohol will be permitted from Monday to Thursday, from 09h00 to 17h00 only;
• Restaurants, bars and taverns will be allowed to operate, also keeping health- and safety protocols in mind.  Alcohol may be served on-site;
• Daily curfew (from 22h00 to 04h00) remains in place for now;
• Gatherings of more than 50 people are still not allowed.  This includes conferences, weddings and funerals;
• Spectators are not allowed at sporting events as yet;
• But we can visit friends and family – in small groups – again!

International travel is still restricted.

The Presidents reiterated the importance of wearing masks when in public, social distancing of at least 1.5 meters and washing hands regularly.

To be continued! Stay safe!