Ramaphosa announces national lockdown

The lockdown follows the announcement of more than 400 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the country. On March 15 Ramaphosa declared the coronavirus pandemic a national disaster  and announced a package of extraordinary measures to combat the public health emergency.

Among the regulations was the prohibition of gatherings exceeding 100 people. On Monday evening, he thanked  doctors, nurses and paramedics who have been at the frontline of the pandemic,  and went on to announce further measures to stop the rapid spread of covid-19.

The president announced plans to mitigate the economic impact  as a result of the outbreak and subsequent lockdown.

“Following consultation with social partners, we have set up a Solidarity Fund, which South African businesses, organisations and individuals, and members of the international community, can contribute to” Ramaphosa said.

The Fund will be focused on efforts to combat the spread of the virus and support those whose lives would be disrupted. He assured that the fund would fully account for every cent contributed.