Uncle Cyril Ramaphosa put on a brave face when addressing the nation tonight, November 28. The “family meeting” comes after the world battles a surge in COVID-19 numbers thanks to the new Omicron variant. Along with urging South Africans to receive their jab, the president has announced that South Africa will remain on adjusted level 1 … for now.
Here‘s a summary of what President Ramaphosa had to say:
- Ramaphosa notes that Omnicron has far more mutations and it is readily detected by the current tests. The identification of Omnicron generally coincides with a rise in cases. The proportion of tests that are positive has risen to 9% in less than a week.
- Vaccines do work and vaccines are saving lives. Over 25 million vaccine doses were administered in South Africa. The president urges all those who have not been vaccinated to head to their nearest vaccination station and receive their jab.
- The president highlights the importance of getting vaccinated, especially ahead of the fourth wave.
- Pfizer has filed an application to SAHPRA for a booster. The Ministerial Advisory Committee has suggested a booster for the older population and those with immunodeficiencies will also be allowed boosters on recommendations of doctors.
- Mandatory vaccination may be on the table soon as Ramaphosa states that they are discussing vaccine mandates with labour, Nedlac etc. There is a government task team discussing making vaccines compulsory for certain activities and locations.
- The president makes a list of tools South Africans need to have in their arsenal: wear your face mask, fresh air, and the fourth is avoid gatherings. He highlights matric “raves” as an example.
- A decision was made: The country will remain on coronavirus alert Level 1… for now. The national state of disaster will remain in place.
- There is still a curfew in place from midnight until 4am. No more than 700 people may gather indoors and 2000 people outdoors.
- We must find ways of managing the pandemic without impacting the economy. It is going to be with us for a long time, says Ramaphosa.
- Ramaphosa addresses the travel bans that have been unfairly placed on South Africa, calling them unjustified and discriminatory and not backed by science.
- “We will have to live with this virus for some time to come.” Ramaphosa once again urges South Africans to go and get vaccinated as it has been proven to help against COVID-19.
- “We will not be defeated by this pandemic. We should not panic. May God continue to bless our beautiful country and protect her people. Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika”
Read More:
Picture: Cape {town} Etc Gallery