Organisers of the Ballito Rage festival has taken up the decision to cancel the remainder of the festival after several people tested positive for COVID-19.
According to a statement released by festival organisers on Wednesday, December 1, the festival opened for the first time on Tuesday, November 30 with extraordinary COVID-19 protocols in place, including mandatory vaccinations for all staff and guests and pre-arrival tests.
However, from the 940 guests and staff who were tested, 32 guests and 4 staff presented positive results. The Department of Health was on-site and worked together with the festival management teams to conduct contact tracing and ensure the necessary isolation of positive individuals and staff as per government protocols.
“After further exhaustive review this morning consultation and guidance from the local and provincial Departments of Health and other key stakeholders, the decision was collectively made to cancel the event going forward based on the data now available to us.
“It is our responsibility to act based on facts, collaboration and the resources and tools we have available,” the statement said.
Also read: Despite the new COVID-19 variant, Rage 2021 organisers says the event will go on
The statement further indicated that ticket holders will receive more information in the coming days via email.
“Whilst we understand the disappointment that this causes for those who were looking forward to enjoying the festival, these are unprecedented times. We strongly urge all ticket holders who choose to stay in the area or travel during the holiday period to continue to be extremely responsible, stay safe and play their part in fighting the spread of COVID-19.”
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