“This is a decisive measure to save the lives of South Africans from infection and save the lives of hundreds of thousands of our people. While these measures will have a considerable impact on people’s livelihoods, on the life of our society and on our economy, the human cost of delaying this action would be far, far greater,” said Ramaphosa.
All shops and businesses will be expected to be closed except for pharmacies, laboratories, banks, essential financial services, supermarkets, petrol stations and health care facilities.
“We must do everything in our means to delay the spread of infection over a long period. It is essential that every person should adhere strictly to the regulations and measures we are announcing,” said Ramaphosa.
The South African National Defense force will be deployed into the streets nationwide to support the police in ensuring that the measures are fully enforced.
