CAPE TOWN- Members of the National Coronavirus Command Council briefed the nation on detailed regulations relating to Covid-19 Level 4.
Minister of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma led the briefing
Here are some of the main points from Dlamini-Zuma's address:
Change of mind, no cigarettes to be sold
Dlamini-Zuma said that over 2000 people opposed the sale of cigarettes. The department made the decision to prohibit the sale of cigarettes under level 4 due to health-related reasons.
Still no alcohol allowed
Under level 4, you may not purchase alcohol. Dlamini-Zuma said drinking alcohol attracts crowds and that the non-sale of alcohol is assisting in the fight against Covid-19. Healthcare workers are able to focus on treating sick patients.
Provinces
Dlamini-Zuma said there is a once-off allowance for people to move between provinces, but they will have to remain in the province they travel to until the end of level 4.
3 hours of exercise per day
Dlamini-Zuma said that the department received 22 000 submissions related to exercise. You are permitted to walk, run, or cycle between 6am and 9am but not in organised groups. You are only allowed to exercise in your neighbourhood and within a 5km radius.
There’s a curfew
Between 8pm-5am you have to be at home unless you have a permit. Recreational visits are not allowed.
Children
Dlamini-Zuma said that children are permitted to move between family members.
Funerals
Close relatives may attend funerals under strict hygienic conditions and you’ll need a death certificate to travel. Night vigils are still prohibited.
Transport
Buses, taxis, e-hailing services, and railways will operate under strict hygienic conditions. Transportation of cargo may be transported to ports.
Public places
Restaurants are not allowed for sit-down and takeaways are not permitted. However, under level 4 food outlets may deliver hot foods to your home. Despite many submission, Dlamini-Zuma said hair salons may not operate. Hotels and guesthouses will also not be allowed to run.
Winter clothes
Dlamini-Zuma said that the sale of winter clothes will be opened up.
Borders
All South Africa borders are still closed, except for the transportation and export of goods. There are exceptions, such as South Africans returning home from other countries.
Agriculture
All agricultural products may be transported to ports or borders and exported.
Evictions
People should not be evicted from their place of residence but Dlamini-Zuma said people should not take advantage of that.
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