In his first speech to the nation in almost six months, his first Corona speech being two years ago, President Ramaphosa announced the lifting of the National State of Disaster Act once the public has commented on new Health regulations by 16 April.

The President enumerated the positive and negative effects of the Corona Virus over the two years.

He described our country as being at a watershed moment after four waves, due to 60 – 80 % of our country’s population having an illness immunity and/or being vaccinated. He said that the country’s economy has almost returned to normal.

President Ramaphosa said that while the Corona Virus would still be with us, it is less severe, and that economic and social restrictions can be eased further.

The following regulations will be relaxed as of tomorrow, based on input from our local advisors, and international best practice:

1.  Gatherings:  indoor and outdoor venues can take up to 50% of their capacity, entering with presenting a Covid Test or proof of vaccination.
2. Funeral maximum numbers are now 200 persons.
3. Masks must be worn in public indoor spaces, but do not need to be worn outdoors. They are not needed for outdoor events or for sport.
4. A one meter Social Distancing applies
5. International travellers entering our country must show a vaccination certificate or a negative PCR Test not older than 72 hours.

President Ramaphosa talked about the low vaccination rate amongst 18 – 35 year olds. A campaign to address this was launched last month. He made a plea for citizens to be vaccinated.

This was the shortest Corina Presidential Speech made in the past two years!

 

Chris von Ulmenstein, WhaleTales Blog: www.whaletalesblog.com www.chrisvonulmenstein.com/blog Tel +27 082 55 11 323 Twitter:@Ulmenstein Facebook: Chris von Ulmenstein, My Cape Town Guide/Mein Kapstadt Guide Instagram: @Chrissy_Ulmenstein @MyCapeTownGuide