Adjusted Alert Level 2

by | Sep 17, 2021 | Newsletters

Adjusted Alert Level 2

In response to the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, the country was placed on Adjusted Alert Level 3 of the lockdown almost two months ago.

On Sunday, 12 September 2021, the President announced the easing of restrictions on the movement of people and gatherings.  Adjusted Level 2 restrictions became effective from Monday, 13 September 2021.

The following measures were announced:

  • The curfew has changed to commence at 23h00 and end at 04h00.
  • Non-essential establishments must close at 22h00 in order for their employees to comply with the curfew.
  • All gatherings will be limited to a maximum of 250 people indoors and limited to 500 people outside, subject thereto that the venue is large enough to adhere to the safety protocols, such as social distancing, however, not limited thereto.
  • Off-site sale of alcohol has been extended as follows: Mondays to Fridays from 10h00 to 18h00.
  • Alcohol sales for on-site consumption will be permitted up to 22h00.
  • Funerals remain restricted to no more than 50 people.
  • Night vigils and after funeral gatherings remain prohibited.

Government is considering “vaccine passports” for people who have been vaccinated, in order to gain access to public places.

President Ramaphosa emphasised that infections remain high, and each citizen needs to exercise caution at all times, and in this regard, the eased measures will be reviewed in two weeks’ time.

Once again, the President highlighted the fact that it remains a criminal offence not to wear a mask in public places, and specifically mentioned the importance of proper ventilation during gatherings / events etc.

The President further cautioned that the third wave of infections is not yet over, and the rate of infection can only decrease through the actions of all residents of the country.

It is a priority to prevent an insurgence of further infections, and to attempt to avoid a fourth wave of infections, specifically during the holiday period in December, and the President encouraged and urged people to undergo a COVID-19 vaccination.