South Africa

South Africa has reported 2 858 new COVID-19 cases, according to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) figures.

National Assembly Speaker, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, has expressed disappointment at the travel restrictions imposed on certain African countries, including South Africa, by some countries in light of the identification of the new COVID-19 variant.

Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, has assured stakeholders of government’s commitment to resolve challenges related to the Clanwilliam Dam project.

While South Africa will remain on the Coronavirus Alert Level 1, President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on citizens who have not vaccinated to do so immediately.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on all those countries that have imposed travel bans on South Africa and other Southern African countries to urgently reverse their decisions.

Government says it has noted the announcements by several countries to institute temporary travel restrictions on South Africa and other countries in the region.

Everyone vaccinated against COVID-19 before the end of the year will stand a chance of winning up to R100 000 in a lucky draw managed by the DG Murray Trust, working with the National Department of Health.

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to convene the National Coronavirus Command Council (NCCC) this Sunday to discuss developments related to the COVID-19 pandemic – including the emergence of a new variant, B.1.1.529.

Tourism Minister Lindiwe Sisulu has expressed disappointment at the government of the United Kingdom’s (UK) decision to place South Africa on its red list travel ban following the discovery of a new COVID-19 variant.

Correctional Services Acting National Commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale says the department is prepared for any “negative incidents” at correctional facilities across the country.