Cyril Ramaphosa announces alert Level-2 lockdown, sale of alcohol and cigarettes

On Saturday, 15 August 2020, President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the nation on South Africa’s ongoing measures to manage the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) through the implementation of a risk-adjusted strategy.

Ramaphosa announced that the country will move to alert level 2 as of Monday, 17 August 2020. He also announced that sale of cigarettes and alcohol will now be permitted, and South Africans will now be allowed to travel from province to province.

Cigarette sales were banned since the nationwide lockdown was introduced in March. The government has since been pressured by the liquor, tobacco, and restaurant industries to lift the ban.

Alcohol will now be sold at retailers from Monday to Thursday, 9am till 5pm. Restaurants and licensed places will be allowed to operate and sell alcohol until 10pm.

Other regulations include:

– Gyms & fitness centres will be permitted to reopen. Appropriate restrictions & safety precautions will apply to protect public health.

– Leisure travel between provinces will once again be permitted.

– Small social gatherings can also take place, with appropriate precautions & hygiene protocols

– All gathering limited to 50 people

– Curfew remains in place from 10pm to 4am except for essential workers

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