In case you missed it, President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the nation last night (22 March 2022). The President announced the easing of some restrictions in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Here are the changes to lockdown level 1:
- Indoor and outdoor events and venues are now allowed to take up to 50% capacity.
- Upon entering a venue or event, guests will need to show proof of vaccination or present a negative COVID 19 test – if not, only a limited amount of guests will be allowed at a venue/event (1 000 people indoors and 2 000 people outdoors).
- Wearing a mask outdoors is no longer compulsory. However, wearing a mask indoors remains mandatory.
- The limit of people attending funerals have now moved up to 200 people (maximum), instead of 100 people with a two hour limit on funeral services.
- Travellers entering South Africa will need to show proof of vaccination or do a PCR test. Travellers who would like to be vaccinated can get one from 23 March.
The President encouraged all South Africans to get vaccinated and get the booster vaccine shot, as it will play a role in easing of further restrictions and could potentially open up the economy.
Ramaphosa urged South Africans to continue to keep a one-metre social distancing space and added that the change to the restrictions on gatherings ‘will be of great benefit to sports, cultural, entertainment and event industries.’
Watch President Cyril Ramaphosa’s full speech here:
Image via CapeTown Etc
