South African President Cyril Ramaphosa stated on Wednesday that he was working to ease further restrictions imposed to combat the coronavirus pandemic. However, places with the most infections will remain at “alert level 4” of the five-stage program by June.
Ramaphosa enforced one of the world’s strictest lockdowns at the end of March. Also, restrictions marginally eased from May 1. The country switched to a five-level warning structure, with five most restricting.
In his address to the nation on Wednesday, he said that stringent measures were necessary. They will help improve the preparation of the country’s health facilities and stop further deaths.
“Our aim is to gradually raise economic activity while introducing steps to minimize the spread of the virus and providing appropriate care for infected people who require treatment.”
Africa’s most developed economy has reported 219 coronavirus deaths, with 12,074 confirmed cases, Ramaphosa said.
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“We will immediately launch a discussion process with the stakeholders on a recommendation by the end of May. Also, much of the country will be on alert level 3, but that certain parts of the country with the highest cases of infection stay at level 4,” he added.
Under Level 3, several businesses can operate, and more goods will be distributed.
Ramaphosa eased lockdown
South Africa eased some lockdown measures at the beginning of the month due to economic concerns.
Yet, President Cyril Ramaposa cautioned that most citizens would stay at home and that large gatherings would also remain banned. In addition, the country’s borders should also remain closed as well.
Several businesses were able to reopen on May 1, and a third of their workers were able to restart work.
Besides, tight restrictions once placed a ban on sales of cigarettes, but it was also lifted at the beginning of the month. Meanwhile, the sales of alcohol remain banned.
In addition, some schools were able to reopen with a limit to the size of the class.
