The country welcomed the lockdown level 1 announcement made by President Cyril Ramaphosa on the evening of the 16th of September. Lockdown level 1 comes into effect on Monday the 21st of September. The tapering down of lockdown restrictions means that there has been a gradual decline of in new transmissions, hospitalizations and deaths. There is, however, a looming threat of a second COVID-19 wave and certain regulations are still in effect.
Lockdown level 1 comes with a bit more freedom of movement as well as resuming a majority of economic activity. Ramaphosa referred to alert lockdown level 1 as the ‘new normal’ and here are the main differences:
| Gatherings | Are permitted but should not exceed 50% of the normal capacity of the venue
Max 250 for indoor gatherings Max 500 for outdoor gatherings Under strict health protocols: sanitizing hands, maintaining social distancing and wearing masks
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| Travel | International travel permitted but will only be using one of the three main ports that were operational during lockdown; King Shaka, OR Tambo and Cape Town International Airport
Travel may be restricted from certain countries
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| Funerals | The maximum number of people for funerals is now 100
Night vigils are not permitted
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| Gyms and Entertainment | Exercise, entertainment and recreational venues will now be allowed to accommodate up to 50% of the venue capacity subject to social distancing regulations
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| Alcohol | The sale of alcohol for home consumption is now extended to Monday to Friday from 09:00 to 17:00 Permitted for onsite consumption subject to curfew |
| Curfew | Curfew from midnight till 04:00
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| Sporting Events | Existing restrictions remain
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| Retail Stores | Only allowed to accommodate 50% of the total number of shoppers the space can accommodate
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| Masks | You are still required to wear a cloth mask in public spaces |
Watch the full address below:
