“When the country moves to level four on 1 May, our borders will remain closed to international travel, except for the repatriation of South African nationals and foreign citizens. No travel will be allowed between provinces, except for the transportation of goods and exceptional circumstances such as funerals,” said Ramaphosa in a televised address to the nation. 

“Public transport will continue to operate, with limitations on the number of passengers and stringent hygiene requirements, including that all passengers must wear a face mask.” 

Ramaphosa said the public is encouraged to stay at home, other than for essential personal movement, doing essential work and work in sectors that are under controlled opening. 

“People can exercise under strict public health conditions. All gatherings, apart from funerals and for work, will remain prohibited. Those who are elderly, and those with underlying conditions, must remain at home and take additional precautions to isolate themselves,” said Ramaphosa. 

“The sale of cigarettes will be permitted. The range of goods that may be sold will be extended to incorporate certain additional categories. These will be detailed by the relevant ministers.” 

Ramaphosa emphasised that “several restrictions will remain in place regardless of the level of alert for as long as the risk of transmission is present”. 

He announced that bars and shebeens will remain closed across South Africa. 

Health Minister Zweli Mkhize announced earlier on Thursday that ten more people have succumbed to coronavirus in South Africa, bringing the death toll in the country to 75.

“Today we regrettably report 10 new deaths. This brings the total to 75. We convey our condolences to the families of the deceased and thank our health workers who treated the deceased patients,” Mkhize said in a statement.

Thursday’s latest statistics indicated that six people had died in the Western Cape, two in KwaZulu-Natal, one in Gauteng and another in the Eastern Cape province. 

Mkhize also announced that the total number of confirmed Covid-19 cases in South Africa had increased considerably to 3,953.

African News Agency (ANA)