South Africa is commemorating the fifth anniversary of its first COVID-19 lockdown, which took effect on March 27, 2020. It was only supposed to last for 21 days. What followed was more than two years of different lockdown levels, family meetings and dread.

This 5th anniversary has prompted reflection on the pandemic’s profound and lasting effects on the nation.

The extended lockdowns, strict regulations, and widespread restrictions brought immense challenges to public health, the economy, and society at large. Yet, they also underscored the resilience and adaptability of South Africans.

The human toll was severe, with more than 102,000 lives lost by March 2023 and over 4 million confirmed infections recorded.

The mental health impact was equally significant. In 2020, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) saw a 47% surge in helpline calls, highlighting the emotional strain experienced by many.

Economically, the crisis led to widespread job losses and business closures. By the end of 2020, unemployment had soared to nearly 35%—one of the highest levels in the country’s history. Small business owners, the backbone of the economy, were hit especially hard, with many forced to deplete their savings or shut down permanently.

The pandemic reshaped daily life, bringing increased awareness of mental health, personal well-being, and the need for adaptability. Remote work, digital healthcare, and heightened hygiene practices became more commonplace, while communities found creative ways to support each other through adversity.

After 750 days under a national State of Disaster, South Africa lifted most COVID-19 restrictions in April 2022, marking a significant step toward recovery.

Earlier this week, President Cyril Ramaphosa lauded the country’s healthcare workers, particularly nurses, who were at the coalface of the pandemic.

During his address to nurses’ union DENOSA, at the start of their 9th Congress, the President reflected on that devastating period:

“The pandemic changed our world almost overnight. We became used to lockdowns, mask-wearing and social distancing. Many lives were lost to the virus, shattering families and communities.

“We lost a number of nurses and healthcare workers, brave men and women who were at the frontline of the pandemic. Despite the risks to their own health, healthcare workers continued to provide treatment, care and support to our people.

“We salute all those who lost their lives. They embodied the finest values of the nursing profession, including compassion, professionalism and courage. It is in great measure thanks to their efforts that our country was able to recover from COVID-19 and begin the task of rebuilding.”