South Africa Eases Restrictions on Liquor and Cigarette Sales amid the pandemic. The coronavirus has affected the whole world, even the African continent is no exception. Every nation in Africa is a victim of the virus. Africa is home to over 1 billion people. According to reports, there are over 25000 fatalities, over 1 million cases of the virus, and 846330 recoveries. There are concerns over the healthcare systems of the continent as they seem to be weak to last throughout the pandemic.
The nation that is leading in the number of virus cases in the continent is South Africa. It currently has over 580000 cases of infections.
Coronavirus in South Africa
In March 2020, Zweli Mkhize announced the spread of the coronavirus to SA. The 1st fatality occurred on 27th March 2020. South Africa is 5th in the world ranking of the coronavirus disease infections. On the 2nd week of March, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a national state of disaster. Moreover, he declared a prompt travel prohibition and the closure of learning institutions.
Later on, the head of state declared a national lockdown. The South African government declared a 500b rand stimulus on 21st April in response to the coronavirus pandemic. As of May, the President said that he might lower the national alert level to 4. In June, the government lowered the country’s restrictions to level 3. On 17 August this year, the president lowered the national restrictions to alert level 2.
Liquor and Cigarette Prohibition in South Africa
Before the President eased restrictions on alcohol and tobacco sales, he had banned the 2 products in the country. This was to control the spread of the virus. For example, people who smoke, share cigarettes and this can increase the spread of the virus since corona can be contracted through saliva. For the part of alcohol, the president was trying to prevent congestion in hospitals due to alcohol-related cases. The hospitals are crucial during this time of the pandemic.
Some people opted to brew alcohol locally through the use of pineapples. Others failed to follow the rules and the police disciplined them. As a result, there was a report on increased police brutality.
SA Lifts Ban on Alcohol and Cigarette Sales
Recently, the head of state decided to ease restrictions on the sale of alcohol and cigarettes following a reduction in cases. Unlike SA, Kenya is experiencing an increased number of cases as the President issued a ban on the sale of alcohol in restaurants. President Cyril Ramaphosa also allowed the reopening of bars.
Current Coronavirus State in SA
Since the cases are declining in the country, the president allowed small social visits. He reminded the citizens of the nationwide curfew and the importance of wearing face masks. The international borders will remain inactive. The limit number of 50 in social gatherings will remain. The number of daily coronavirus cases reduced from over 11000 to an average of 5000.
What President Ramaphosa is Saying
The president told the citizens not to relax in efforts of controlling the spread of coronavirus. He urges them to continue doing the right thing.
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