More Control Measures for Covid-19 Fight in South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has addressed South Africans on the country's fight against the Coronavirus pandemic which at January 12, sees the total number of cases rise to 1,246,643, of which 33,579 proved fatal and 973,265 resulted in recoveries. Among the key points were that the lockdown level 3 measures will remain in place. The ban on the sale of alcohol under this lockdown measures will remain - largely to reduce the number of trauma cases at hospitals. The president also announced the closure of 20 land border posts until February 15, including Beitbridge on the Zimbabwe-South Africa border, that experienced heavy congestion over the festive season, posing a threat to more Covid-19 infections. People will still be able to leave and enter the country subject to certain conditions. Beaches, dams, lakes, rivers and public swimming pools are closed, with only controlled access public parks remaining open. South Africa is expected to receive the first batch of Covid-19 vaccines in the first quarter of 2021. None too soon as the country endeavours to restart a battered economy and rising unemployment.