Ramaphosa extends level 3, shuts land ports

Ramaphosa met with Cabinet and the National Coronavirus Command Council over the past few days to deliberate on the country’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic.  

Initially the regulations were set down for 14 days, subject to review at the end of the period. 

Since then, the number of infections and fatalities have jumped exponentially.  

Ramaphosa said the grim picture called for the regulations to remain in place.

“Based on the recommendations of the National Coronavirus Command Council, Cabinet has decided to maintain the country on adjusted alert level 3.” 

Under these regulations, indoor and outdoor gatherings remain banned. 

“This includes social gatherings, religious gatherings, political events, traditional council meetings and gatherings at sports grounds. As before, this does not include funerals and other limited exceptions as detailed in the regulations, such as restaurants, museums and gyms,” Ramaphosa said on Monday evening. 

“All beaches, dams, lakes, rivers, public parks and public swimming pools in hotspot areas will be closed to the public. As before, botanical gardens, national parks and other parks where access control measures and entry limitations are already in place may remain open to the public,” he added. 

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Despite widespread opposition, the booze ban also remains in place. 

“The sale of alcohol from retail outlets and the on-site consumption of alcohol is still not be permitted. 

“Health services in several parts of the country reported that the prohibition of alcohol sales had significantly reduced the number of trauma cases seen in our hospitals over the New Year period. It is vital that we continue to protect our health services at this crucial time,” said Ramaphosa. 

There were some changes to the regulations. 

Following the congestion at border posts, Ramaphosa has opted to close all land ports. 

“To reduce congestion and the high risk of transmission, Cabinet has decided that the 20 land ports of entry that are currently open will be closed until the 15th of February for general entry and departure. These include the six busiest border posts, which are Beitbridge, Lebombo, Maseru Bridge, Oshoek, Ficksburg and Kopfontein," he explained. 

“People will be however still be allowed to enter or depart the country for the transportation of fuel, cargo and goods, emergency medical attention for a life-threatening condition, the return of South African nationals, permanent residents or persons with other valid visas, diplomats, the departure of foreign nationals, daily commuters from neighbouring countries who attend school in South Africa.” 

The curfew was eased slightly and will now be in force between 9pm and 5am.