Liquor sales and tobacco ban: 11 things you need to know from Ramaphosa’s speech
Reflecting on the words of former president Nelson Mandela’s 2007 speech during the height of the battle against HIV/AIDS, Ramaphosa called on the nation to demonstrate solidarity and compassion in the face of the global outbreak.
“In meeting this grave challenge, we will move ahead as one people, united in action, and determined that we will surely overcome. At this time, more than any other, we are reminded of the words of Madiba, when he said: ‘It is now in your hands’,” said Ramaphosa.
The president said more than 580 000 coronavirus tests had been done, while more than 12 million screenings had been conducted so far.
Focusing some of his address on commuters, as more public transport will come into effect under the new alert level, Ramaphosa called for a partnership between commuters and taxi, bus and train operators, as well as between government and business, to ensure those who used the different modes of transport were also kept safe.
They, too, would have to adhere to wearing masks at all times, keeping safe distances from other commuters and washing their hands before and after each trip.
“Taxi and bus operators need to observe the regulations to be announced by the Minister of Transport, including ensuring that their vehicles are regularly sanitised,” said Ramaphosa.
The president said some businesses had also offered to look at providing transport for their employees and even staggering working hours to help reduce congestion.
