President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced that following consultations with provincial and local government representatives, and drawing on the advice of scientists and engagements with various stakeholders, Cabinet decided this morning that the country should move to alert Level 1 of the lockdown.
Level 1 will commence at midnight 20 September and sees a number of restrictions being eased.
The maximum number of people who may attend a funeral is increased from 50 to 100 due to the higher risk of viral transmission at funerals. Night vigils are still not permitted.
Venues for exercise, recreation and entertainment – such as gyms and theatres – which were limited to no more than 50 people, will now be allowed to accommodate up to 50% of their venue’s capacity as determined by available floor space.
In preparation for the re-opening of our borders, South African missions abroad will open for visa applications and all long-term visas will be reinstated.
You can read the full speech here: https://www.gov.za/speeches/president-cyril-ramaphosa-progress-south-africas-effort-contain-coronavirus-covid-19
Careful screening of international travellers at airports and border crossings is essential to prevent infected visitors from entering the country and contributing to the spread of the virus. pic.twitter.com/UGB09n3BVT
— Presidency | South Africa 🇿🇦 (@PresidencyZA) September 16, 2020
The curfew time has been eased, and alcohol sales will be allowed until Friday:
The easing of restrictions on alcohol sales under Level 1 must be done cautiously and responsibly to prevent harm to public health. pic.twitter.com/y2P1iDr863
— Presidency | South Africa 🇿🇦 (@PresidencyZA) September 16, 2020
