On Tuesday evening, President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the nation on developments in South Africa’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic. And during his speech, he announced several changes to the lockdown restrictions as we start to move away from the national state of disaster.
According to Ramaphosa, the country is now in a “watershed moment” as it is entering the next phase of managing the pandemic. And with fewer citizens getting severally ill, at least 80% of the population is expected to have immunity against Covid due to the vaccination and previous infection combination.
The following restrictions will be eased as part of adjusted level 1:
Gatherings
Any gathering – indoor and outdoor – are allowed up to 50% of capacity. However, proof of vaccination or a Covid test (not older than 72 hours) needs to be shown.
If no vaccine certificates are required, indoor gatherings are allowed 1000 people.
And outdoor gatherings are allowed up to 2000 people.
Social Distancing
The new social distancing limit is 1 metre in all settings except in schools.
Funerals
Now up to 200 guests may attend a funeral, however, night vigils and after-funeral gatherings are still not allowed.
Masks
When in any indoor space, everyone needs to be wearing a mask. However, masks are no longer required when people are outdoors.
Travel
When entering South Africa, travellers will have to present a vaccination certificate or a negative PCR test (not older than 72 hours).
During his address, Ramaphosa emphasized the fact that when the state of disaster is lifted, it does not mean that it is the end of the pandemic. Instead, it signifies a change in the way things will be handled by the government.
All new measures will take effect from today, 23 March. Read the Government Gazette below: