Government will ease some restrictions from 1 May, where some industries can resume, and you will be able to buy cigarettes.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced a five-level “risk-adjusted strategy” where the country will slowly ease lockdown restrictions starting 1 May.

From 1 May, there will be some activity allowed, subject to extreme caution. Some businesses will be allowed to resume under specific conditions.

He called on all South Africans to wear a face mask from that date.

Ramaphosa explained the five levels. Level five – which is where the country is now – is where drastic measures are used to contain the virus.

Level four will kick in from 1 May, and this means some activity will be allowed to resume, but with precautions.

Level three involves the easing of restrictions around work and social activities. Level two is further easing, but social distancing and discouraging gatherings will still be enforced. Level one means further easing, where more normal activity can resume.

President Cyril Ramaphosa addresses the nation on measures to curb the spread of Coronavirus #COVID19SA https://t.co/BBOdvi56fX

— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) April 23, 2020