The Northern Cape Education Department say the spike in infections in the Umsobomvu and Renosterberg Local Municipalities, which have the highest coronavirus figures in the district, pose a risk to the phased reopening of schools in the area. OFM News’ Olebogeng Motse explains the Northern Cape has 80 active cases and one confirmed death as per the figures released by Minister Zweli Mkhize.

More than 50% of the active cases in the Northern Cape lie in the Pixley ka Seme District with 44 active cases. The former epicentre of the virus - the Francis Baard District -  now has 21 active cases after 27 people recovered from the virus and one person died.

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Department of Education remains satisfied with the manner in which the schools in the other four districts have adhered to COVID-19 regulations and guidelines despite challenges enountered. Most schools countrywide reopened on Monday for grades 7 and 12 learners since they were abruptly closed in late March to curb the spread of the virus.

The situation in the Pixley ka Seme District does not seem to be improving as yet. Of the seven new infections announced by Mkhize on Tuesday evening, five alone are in the district. According to the Provincial Health Department, two of the new cases are in the Joe Morolong Local Municipality, and the Sol Plaatje Local Municipality. While five are in the flagged Umsobomvu Local Municipality alone, two are teenagers, aged 16 and 17 years old.

The Northern Cape Provincial Executive Council and senior education department officials visited 108 of the 515 schools that reopened on Monday to assess adherence to COVID-19 regulations. The oversight team found that 16 schools are facing water supply shortages, whilst four schools did not have enough hygiene packs. The provincial government has vowed to ensure these matters are sorted out soon.

OFM News