JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) &#8211; The chairman of Vodacom Group, Jabu Moleketi, will step down from the board and retire on July 21, the South African telecoms firm said on Friday. 



Saki Macozoma, who is now lead independent non-executive director, will take over from Moleketi from July 22, Vodacom said in a statement. He was appointed to the board in 2017. 



Moleketi, 62, a former deputy finance minister, was appointed to the Vodacom Group board in 2009 and appointed chairman in 2017, replacing Peter Moyo. 



He is chairman of investment firm Brait SE and cement firm PPC and has served on several boards, including the Development Bank of Southern Africa, Remgro and Nedbank Group. 



Macozoma’s lead independent non-executive director role will be taken up by David Brown, the company said. 



(Reporting by Nqobile Dludla; Editing by Mark Potter)



This article was first published on Reuters Africa <a href="https://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFKBN21E0YK-OZABS">https://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFKBN21E0YK-OZABS</a> and is republished with its permission.

Vodacom chairman to retire in July

JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) &#8211; Moody’s will cut South Africa’s sovereign credit rating later on Friday as a recession deepened by the impact of coronavirus frustrates economic reform efforts aimed at reducing government debt, a Reuters poll of economists found.



Taken in the last three days, the survey showed 12 of 18 respondents saying Moody’s, the only major credit rating agency that still rates South Africa’s bonds as investment-grade, will cut them to “junk” status. Standard &amp; Poor’s and Fitch both cut their ratings to junk nearly three years ago. 



Eleven economists who answered an extra question said the rating was “still relevant” despite a punishing market sell-off that has overshadowed the long-awaited decision, while five said it was “important”. Only two said whether or not Moody’s downgrades the bonds to junk was “irrelevant.” 



“It may not be a market-moving event at this juncture but is important going forward as sub-investment grade from all three rating agencies will undoubtedly raise the cost of capital or funding in South Africa,” said economist Hugo Pienaar at the Bureau for Economic Research. 



The rand, stocks and bonds have been under intense pressure as the pandemic hits asset prices. But many analysts say South African assets have been trading as though they are junk-rated for at least a couple of years already. 



“In our view, the Moody’s downgrade itself has for some time been discounted by financial markets, though it remains uncertain exactly what impact the subsequent World Government Bond Index (WGBI) expulsion will have,” said Elna Moolman, economist at Standard Bank. 



“Guided by global examples in this regard, it is possible that the bulk of the repricing has already occurred.” 



With the virus still spreading, in a worst-case scenario, median forecasts showed South Africa’s economy would shrink by 4% in Q1, 8% in Q2 and 5% in 2020 as a whole, according to the median forecasts from answers to an additional question. 



The last Reuters poll prior to the announcement of the 21-day lockdown for South Africa that started on Thursday evening predicted the economy would shrink 0.4% in Q1, then grow 0.9% in Q2 and 0.3% for the year as whole. 



“As the country enters a minimum of a three-week lockdown period it means domestic fiscal metrics are likely to get significantly worse this year, with sovereign debt ratios now almost certain to rise,” said Jeffrey Schultz, economist at BNP Paribas.



South African assets recovered on Wednesday after the central bank launched a bond-buying programme, seeking to drum up demand in credit markets as the coronavirus epidemic weighs on the ailing economy. 



Christopher Shiells at Informa Global Markets said a downgrade to junk status would probably be seen as a relief by the government as it would free it up to make a significant fiscal response to the crisis. 



“Rating agencies are expected to downgrade a number of sovereigns due to the coronavirus. Outflows and asset weakness have been occurring over last month, so the worst has already happened in that sense,” he said. 



(Editing by Ross Finley and Catherine Evans)



This article was first published on Reuters Africa <a href="https://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFKBN21E150-OZABS">https://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFKBN21E150-OZABS</a> and is republished with its permission.



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Moody’s to cut South Africa’s sovereign credit rating to junk – economists

JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) &#8211; Cases of coronavirus in South Africa passed 1,000 on Friday, the health ministry said, while also reporting its first two deaths on the first day of a three-week, nationwide lockdown. 



South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the lockdown, which saw Africa’s most industrialised economy largely shudder to a halt overnight, earlier this week. 



“This morning, we South Africans wake up with sad news that we now have our first deaths resulting from COVID-19,” the health ministry said in a statement, adding cases had risen to more than 1,000, from 927 on Thursday. 



Both deaths had occurred in the southernmost province of Western Cape, with one in a public hospital and the other in a private hospital, the statement read. 



The 21-day lockdown came into force at midnight on Thursday, and largely confines people to their homes aside from specific purposes like buying food or for health emergencies. 



However, local media on Friday morning showed pictures of bustling streets and long queues outside supermarkets in poor townships &#8211; where cramped, squalid conditions make social distancing near impossible, and mean the virus could spread quickly among people reliant on an ailing public health system. 



(Reporting by Emma Rumney; Editing by Tim Cocks)



This article was first published on Reuters Africa <a href="https://af.reuters.com/article/topNews/idAFKBN21E0YX-OZATP">https://af.reuters.com/article/topNews/idAFKBN21E0YX-OZATP</a> and is republished with its permission.



For more coverage on COVID-19 visit: <a href="https://www.cnbcafrica.com/covid-19/">https://www.cnbcafrica.com/covid-19/</a>

S.Africa COVID-19 cases exceed 1,000, first two dead reported

By Graham Viljoen, Nina Keyser, Shirleen Ritchie, Yashika
Govind, Lumen Moolman and Bianca de Klerk from Webber Wentzel



The address by President Cyril
Ramaphosa on Monday, 23 March 2020, set out certain fiscal relief measures to help
small and medium enterprises (SMEs)
and vulnerable firms mitigate cash flow constraints as a consequence of the COVID-19
outbreak. Certain of these measures will be implemented through the tax system
and aim to use the tax system as a means of easing the liquidity constraints
currently faced by businesses. Specific detail on these measures will be published
by National Treasury in the coming days.&nbsp;
We provide a summary of the tax proposals set out in the address by the
President below.



Support for businesses:



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Pay as you earn</li></ul>



SMEs with a turnover of less than ZAR50&nbsp;million‑



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>may defer 20% of their prospective pay-as-you-earn (PAYE) liabilities over the next four months; and </li><li>may defer a portion of their provisional corporate income tax payments without penalties or interest over the next six months.  </li></ul>



The deferral of provisional tax
payments should apply to the first and second provisional tax payments as well
as potentially the third top-up payment. &nbsp;



In order to qualify for these
deferrals, the enterprise must be fully tax compliant. &nbsp;Enterprises can check their tax compliance status
via SARS eFiling. &nbsp;We look forward to
additional clarity around whether an application will need to be submitted to
SARS or whether the relief applies automatically.



Support for employers and employees:



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Employee Tax Incentive</li></ul>



Government has proposed an additional
tax subsidy in the amount of up to ZAR500 per month for the next four months
per qualifying employee in the private sector.&nbsp;




The employment tax incentive (ETI) is
paid to employers who employ qualifying employees (including the youth) and is
considered a labour cost sharing mechanism between government and the private
sector to incentivise employment.&nbsp; The
existing ETI is aimed at supporting qualifying employees who earn below ZAR6&nbsp;500
per month on a sliding scale based on salary where the employer is registered for
Employees Tax.&nbsp; 



The employer is entitled to reduce the
total amount of its PAYE liability by setting off the ETI amount calculated in
respect of that month.&nbsp; Where there is no
PAYE to set off against the ETI amount, the employer will be entitled to a
reimbursement of the total ETI amount available as at the end of each PAYE
reconciliation period.



A further proposal aims at reducing the
reimbursement period to a monthly period.



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Compensation Fund</li></ul>



Any employee who falls ill pursuant to exposure
to Covid-19 at work will be entitled to claim from the Compensation Fund.&nbsp; Broadly speaking, claimants are required to
include such compensation in their gross income for tax purposes.&nbsp; The amount is, however, exempt from normal tax
in accordance with section 10(1)(gB) of the Income Tax Act. 



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>UIF – Temporary Employee Relief Scheme</li></ul>



Government proposes utilising the
Temporary Employee Relief Scheme (TERS)
to enable companies to pay employees and avoid retrenchments.&nbsp; TERS was launched in December 2019 and is
aimed at assisting businesses who face temporary constraints that will result
in retrenchments.&nbsp; The allowance will be
in the form of a wage payment directly to employees. 



This should support SMEs and other
vulnerable firms who are faced with a loss of income to provide support to
workers. &nbsp;



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>UIF and SDL</li></ul>



Government is investigating a reduction
in employer and employee contributions to the Unemployment Insurance Fund and a
reduction in Skills Development Levies. 



The proposal entails using actuarial
reserves in the Unemployment Insurance Fund to support workers of SMEs and
vulnerable firms who are faced with loss of income and whose employers cannot
provide support.&nbsp; 



The relief outlined by the President to aid SMEs and vulnerable firms and employees during this time is welcomed. We will provide an update as more detail becomes available.



For more coverage on COVID-19 visit: <a href="https://www.cnbcafrica.com/covid-19/">https://www.cnbcafrica.com/covid-19/</a>

Tax relief proposed by the President – image LR

Covid-19: Tax relief proposed by the President

JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) &#8211; South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has tested negative for coronavirus, the presidency said in a statement on Thursday. 



“The president submitted for testing as a precautionary measure upon the advice of physicians on Tuesday 24th March 2020 and received his results last night,” the statement said, adding he had held meetings with a variety of people in recent weeks. 



(Reporting by Emma Rumney; Editing by Alison Williams)



This article was first published on Reuters Africa <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-safrica-president-idUSKBN21D0X5">https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-safrica-president-idUSKBN21D0X5</a> and is republished with its permission.



For more coverage on COVID-19 visit: <a href="https://www.cnbcafrica.com/covid-19/">https://www.cnbcafrica.com/covid-19/</a>

Ramaphosa tests negative for coronavirus as South Africa to begin lockdown

CR-lockdown

NKC African Economics expects the coronavirus-related knock to economic
growth in Africa’s three largest economies alone to shave off 1 ppt from the
continent’s GDP growth this year, from 3.8% to 2.8%. 



Preliminary estimates point towards the weakest continental growth
since the early 1990s.



The continent’s three largest economies, South Africa, Nigeria and
Egypt – together accounting for just under 60% of African GDP – will see a
significant weakening in economic growth this year. 



This slowdown in economic activity will permeate through the
continent as these countries are salient drivers behind economic growth in
their respective regions.&nbsp; 



In addition to the indirect effects stemming from weakness in the
largest economies, other African nations will also have to deal with a much
more volatile external economic environment. 



The collapse in tourism will weigh on economic growth in many
countries (particularly the island nations, Morocco, Egypt, and Tunisia), while
a reduction in both export demand and commodity prices will weaken fundamentals
in Africa’s more export-oriented economies (most notably the oil producing
nations).&nbsp; 



The escalation in the Covid-19 outbreak in Africa implies there is
a lot more at stake than foregone economic production. 



Most African countries will not be able to effectively implement
the severe restrictions on movement that we have seen globally. The
impracticality of implementing widespread self-quarantine in shantytowns or
informal settlements means that this will not be an option. Mismanagement of
the situation could lead to human costs far exceeding economic losses.



Tourism is a key forex generator and employment creator across the
continent. Severe travel restrictions, border closures and lockdowns in key
source markets will result in a collapse in tourism during the first half of
the year, at least. 



Domestic and intra-Africa tourism have been key drivers behind
growth in overall tourism in recent years, but as more Covid-19 cases are
confirmed on the continent we will see an increase in domestic travel
restrictions and regional border closures. 



The island nations will be hardest hit, but the mainland will feel
the effects in the North (particularly in Tunisia, Morocco and Egypt), South
(Namibia, Botswana), East (Tanzania, Rwanda, Kenya) and West (Côte d’Ivoire,
The Gambia, Cameroon). 



Low barriers to entry have led to tourism becoming a key source of
employment. The island nations in particular are dependent on tourism to
generate employment, most notably the Seychelles (where tourism accounts for
around 44% of formal employment), Cape Verde (39%) and Mauritius (19%). 



Tourism has also become a salient job creator on the African
mainland, and a slump in the sector could result in rapid job losses given the prevalence
of micro- and small-sized enterprises operating in the sector.&nbsp; 



The slowdown in global economic activity will translate into a
reduction in demand, while lower commodity prices will compound this negative
effect on exports. 



Africa’s energy exporters will struggle to come to terms with a
much more hostile external environment. Countries such as Nigeria, Angola and
Gabon are highly dependent on oil exports not only to generate forex but also
to fund government spending. 



Countries including Namibia, Zambia, Botswana and Mozambique are
dependent on mineral exports for the same reasons. 



Generally speaking, countries that have a GDP structure orientated
towards exports will feel the pain of a weaker external environment.



Lower international energy prices will have a detrimental impact
on the continent’s oil exporters, but many other countries stand to benefit. 



A reduction in the oil imports bill will have a favourable impact
on external balances while also containing consumer price inflation. Lower
inflation will support consumer spending at a time when a weak external
environment increases the importance of domestic consumption in driving overall
economic growth.&nbsp; 



The South African economy had already entered 2020 on a very
fragile footing before the dramatic external developments related to the
Covid-19 pandemic. NKC forecasts a 5% real GDP contraction this year. Domestic
policy uncertainty and supply-side constraints have now been accompanied by a
deterioration in global business sentiment and a drop in demand for South
African goods, all weighing on the country’s economic recovery prospects. 



In addition, the three-week long nationwide lockdown, which
commenced on March 27, will result in a collapse in consumer spending. The
outlook could deteriorate further if the lockdown is extended.&nbsp; 



The coronavirus has not as yet, as far as we know, taken
significant hold in Nigeria. However, the weaker external environment and more
specifically, the recent collapse in international oil prices, will have a
marked impact on the economy’s performance this year.



Lower oil prices will result in tighter FX liquidity, rising
inflation, falling investment, lower fiscal expenditure and easing consumption
growth. 



As a result, NKC has revised its growth projection sharply lower
to 1.2% this year, with risks still firmly stacked to the downside. 



A more severe domestic outbreak of Covid-19 would cause
significant disruption to daily economic activity, particularly when
considering the population density in the country’s biggest cities. 



Despite the Egyptian government’s efforts, the number of confirmed
Covid-19 cases continues to rise considerably. 



The president has urged all citizens to stay at home for a two-week
period and a night-time curfew has been declared, while the possibility of a
formal lockdown in some regions is also circulating in local media. 



The fiscal deficit is set to widen significantly over fiscal year
(FY) 2019/20 and FY 2020/21 following the announcement of a stimulus and
bail-out package to the value of approximately E£100bn. 



Government revenues already came in far below budget during the
first half of FY 2019/20 and will take a massive knock during the second half
of the fiscal year, which ends in June. 



Lower economic growth reflects weaker consumption, investment, and
exports. 



The recently announced fiscal stimulus measures, however, should
prevent a collapse in domestic demand. 



The economic impact of the coronavirus epidemic will be
considerable, but the human costs will be higher yet. 



As of end March South Africa remains the hardest-hit African
country from a confirmed-case perspective and the expected economic hardship
reflects this. 



However, South Africa is also arguably the best-placed country on
the continent to deal with the pandemic. While it does have a large
immuno-compromised population due to its struggles with HIV, the country might
be able to leverage its sophisticated private healthcare sector to supplement
inadequate public services. 



Most other African nations will not have this benefit. 



Confirmed Covid-19 cases will undoubtedly increase across the
continent in coming weeks, and timely and effective government responses will
be required to ensure that this does not become another African tragedy.



Jacques Nel – Head of Africa Macro



For more coverage on COVID-19 visit: <a href="https://www.cnbcafrica.com/covid-19/">https://www.cnbcafrica.com/covid-19/</a>

Clarification on COVID-19 “hotspots” as SA moves to level 3 lockdown

Op-Ed: African giants to stumble due to Covid-19 pandemic

Officials warn that although governments were trying to be
transparent and do the right thing, some slipped through the net.



By Chris Bishop



COVID-19 cases are occurring at the rate of 300-a-day in
sub-Saharan Africa and there are likely to be many more that the authorities
are missing, a World Health Organisation briefing on the continent admitted
Thursday. The good news is that experts are hard at work on creating a vaccine,
but this may take more than a year.



The WHO is working with governments across Africa to contain
the disease as it threatens to spread rapidly throughout the continent. Rwanda
and Angola have gone on lockdown in the last week and South Africa will follow
suit a midnight Thursday when businesses and shops – except those selling food
and medicine – will close across the country.&nbsp; 



The webinar briefing, moderated by the World Economic Forum
from Geneva, heard that a month ago just one country in Sub-Saharan Africa
reported an infection; just two weeks ago it was 10 and in the last three days
40 Sub-Saharan Africa countries said they had cases of COVID-19.&nbsp;&nbsp; 



“We have still a window, true it is narrowing every day, to
contain this disease. In half of the countries in Sub-Saharan Africa we still
have imported cases and we have identified that local spread is not
happening…We could contain this virus in many countries. What we are seeing is
draconian measures being put in place, like closing down places and stopping
flights, but these need to be following up by checking on people in quarantine
and making sure there is social distancing. We still have the opportunity to
stop it in some countries,” says Dr Matshidiso Moeti, the WHO Regional Director
for Africa, from her headquarters in Congo Brazzaville.&nbsp; 



South African born Moeti, a citizen of Botswana, said there
was strong political will to fight the outbreak with countries in Africa
ramping up their defences. When the first case was reported in Africa, she
said, only Senegal and South Africa had the laboratories to diagnose the
disease; now 40 countries had the wherewithal.



WHO officials also admitted, under questions from
journalists on the webinar, that small countries and island nations in
Sub-Saharan Africa were most at risk, along with countries suffering conflict
and population displacements, because their resources were thin. 



Officials also said that conditions in some parts of Africa
– where 50 or 60 people could be living the same property were not conducive to
the social distancing that is being seen as a main plank in the strategy to
fight the disease.



“I think this is something we will continue to think through
there is no easy answer to it. We have to think through the issue of our own
cultural leanings…This is something in which we have to work closely with our
community,” says Dr John Nkengasong, the director of the African Centres for
Disease Control for WHO.



Officials also admitted, when asked whether cases were being
underreported in Africa, that although governments were trying to be
transparent and do the right thing, some slipped through the net.



“There are cases out there that we don’t know,” admitted one
official.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 



Scores of experts were working on a vaccine for COVID-19,
but it was likely to take a year to 18 months to perfect one for the market.



For now, quarantine and keep your distance.



For more coverage on COVID-19 visit: <a href="https://www.cnbcafrica.com/covid-19/">https://www.cnbcafrica.com/covid-19/</a>

International travel for South Africans is now allowed, this is how it will work

WHO: Sub-Saharan Africa reporting at least 300 COVID-19 cases a day

MINISTER OF POLICE UNPACKS MEASURES BY
THE POLICE TO ENFORCE THE NATIONAL LOCKDOWN, 25 MARCH 2020 AT GCIS PRETORIA



Honourable Ministers



Deputy Ministers



DG&#8217;s, Senior Officers from the JCPS
and other Government Departments



Members of the Media



Fellow South Africans



Good Day, Sanibonani, Dumelang&nbsp;



Annexure D (Regulations) &#8211; List of
prohibited places



Following the declaration of a
nationwide lockdown by the President this past Monday, we have sat as the JCPS
Cluster and the South African Police Service, to outline and intensify the
measures we would be implementing to make sure that the intentions of this
lockdown are realised.



With the subsequent deployment of the
SANDF, we will be increasing visibility and conduct integrated foot patrols,
roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints as of 23h59 on Thursday evening 26 March 2020.
Metro Police Departments as well as other Law Enforcement Agencies will form
part of these joint operations that will be conducted for the duration of the
lockdown. Operations, especially roadblocks will be conducted at sector
policing level within communities and residential areas, on provincial and
national roads. This will ensure that the movement of people and vehicles is
kept to the minimum, with the exception of the transportation of essential good
and/or services which include fire and medical emergency services.



At these roadblocks particularly on
provincial and national roads, motorists, especially essential service workers
that cross provincial borders, will be subjected to screening by officials from
the Department of Health.



In terms of the new regulations that
have just been gazetted, Police will be responsible to ensure the restriction
of movement of persons and goods. Therefore, there shall be, absolutely no
gatherings other than for a funeral, where the number of mourners will be
restricted to 50. Still on funerals, we need to emphasise that even night
vigils will be prohibited.



Last weekend with the previous
COVID-19 Disaster Management Regulations, we were inundated with requests for
clarity and a lot of other questions around the selling and consumption of
liquor. This time around with the National Lockdown, the selling of liquor is
strictly prohibited. This is applicable to also those supermarkets with liquor
licences. No liquor will be sold anywhere by anyone during the 21-day period of
the lockdown.



Equally, the movement of liquor
between any two points is also strictly prohibited as per the COVID-19 Disaster
Management Regulations.



The President in declaring the
lockdown, made exception to essential goods and services. A detailed list
clarifying what these are, is attached as one of the Annexures in the
Regulations. Only those goods and services that appear on these Annexures will
be allowed. Anything outside of these lists will not be entertained.



Therefore, anyone found to be in
contravention of the Regulations, shall be found guilty and on conviction, will
be liable to a fine, or imprisonment for a period not exceeding six months, or
both.



We have noted the fear and the
possibility of the escalation of gender based violence that could come as a
result of liquor now being consumed at home. As an extra measure, we have plans
in place to beef up our FCS Units (Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual
Offences) to deal with this threat. The number 0800 150 150 can be used to
report incidents of gender based violence for urgent response.



Meanwhile, all forms of crime must be
reported. Our 10111 will remain fully functional during the lockdown period.
The Crime Stop number is also functional and can be used to give anonymous tip
offs on suspected criminal activities. Also, police and the SANDF will be
visible in the streets conducting foot patrols.



Ladies and gentlemen, the simplest and
best way to combat the spread of the Corona Virus, is to adhere to the call by
the President and STAY HOME. The only time you should be outside of your home
should be to acquire essential services such as medical attention, food, or
other goods and services as listed in the Annexure to the Regulations.



Cooperation from the public is the
best way to win this battle. I must appreciate the calls and tip-offs we got
last weekend reporting people who were ignoring the Disaster Management
Regulations. In fact, it is exactly that stubborn behaviour that has now caused
us a national lockdown.



Again I warn, failure to respect and
obey the laws this time around, could drive us straight into a state of
emergency. The situation we find ourselves in demands that we all be
responsible and take the necessary precautions.



Let us unite against the virus.
Remember, our aim is to arrest the virus not to arrest people.



Issued by the GCIS on behalf of the
Ministry of Police 



25 March 2020



 For more coverage on COVID-19 visit: <a href="https://www.cnbcafrica.com/covid-19/">https://www.cnbcafrica.com/covid-19/</a>

SANDF to assist police in enforcing South Africa’s lockdown

STATEMENT
OF THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT, FIKILE MBALULA, ON THE OCCASION OF UNPACKING
LOCKDOWN IMPLICATIONS FOR TRANSPORT ON 25 MARCH 2020 



In
announcing the nation-wide lockdown, the President indicated that provision
will be made for essential transport services to continue, including transport
for essential staff and for patients who need to be managed elsewhere.&nbsp;
The measures we are announcing today are in line with this injunction, while
ensuring that the objective of the lockdown is achieved. &nbsp;



Rail



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>All long-distance passenger rail services, both public and private, will stop operations for the duration of the lockdown.  Services of Shosholoza Meyl, Premier Classe and Blue Train operated by PRASA and Transnet respectively, have already been suspended.  The new regulations mean that private rail operators such as Rovos Rail will also cease operations.  </li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>All commuter rail services will shut down for the duration of the lockdown.  This includes all Metrorail and Gautrain services.  </li></ul>



Aviation



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>All international and domestic flights are prohibited, irrespective of the risk category of the country of origin.  </li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Only essential air cargo will be allowed.  However, cargo from high risk country must be sanitized.</li></ul>



Maritime



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The ban on cruise ships calling at any of our Sea Ports will be strictly enforced.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Essential cargo will be allowed at our 8 Sea Ports.  However, cargo from high risk countries must be sanitized. </li></ul>



Taxis



MINIBUS
TAXIS



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>As part of the relief measures for small businesses in distress as announced by the President, those taxis that have been financed by the National Taxi Finance administered by the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA) will be granted a 3 months repayment holiday.  Commercial banks are also considering similar measures.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Minibus-Taxis will be allowed to transport essential services workers and those allowed to make the necessary permitted movements. Transport movements in this regard will be allowed to operate from 05h00 to 09h00 and again from 16h00 to 20h00.  </li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Operators should put measures in place to adhere to social distancing in order to curb the spread of the virus.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>All minibus-taxis must be sanitized after every trip.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>All taxi ranks must be sanitized at regular intervals.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Where appropriate, government will provide assistance.</li></ul>



METERED
TAXIS AND E-HAILING



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Metered Taxis and e-Hailing vehicles will be allowed to transport essential services workers and those allowed to make the necessary permitted movements. Transport movements in this regard will be allowed to operate from 05h00 to 09h00 and again from 16h00 to 20h00.  </li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Metered Taxis and e-Hailing vehicles must be sanitized after each journey.  The industry will take responsibility for this. Where appropriate government will assist.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The number of passengers each vehicle is allowed to carry will be reduced.  A vehicle licensed to carry up to 4 people will only be permitted to load 1 person.  A vehicle licensed to carry up to 8 passengers will only be permitted to load a maximum of 3 passengers.  </li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Sanitizers used in all taxi vehicles must have a minimum of 60% alcohol content.</li></ul>



Buses



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Limited bus operations will be allowed to transport essential services workers and those allowed to make the necessary permitted movements.</li></ul>



Cross-Border
Road Transport



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>All cross-border road passenger movements will be prohibited for the duration of the lockdown.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Cross-border freight movement for essential goods will continue to and from our neighbouring countries.  </li></ul>



During
the lockdown period most services rendered by our entities will be
suspended.&nbsp; Vehicle Testing Centres and Drivers’ Licence Testing Centres
(DLTCs) will be closed.&nbsp; Should your drivers’ licence expire during the
duration of the lockdown it shall be deemed to remain valid until the end of
the lockdown, with the grace period of renewal within 14 working days thereafter
unless otherwise determined.



We
will maintain skeleton staff for purposes of safe road operations, clearing of
accidents, maintenance of tunnels as well as road traffic enforcement.



In
addition to the measures I have outlined, as a Minister of Transport, I am
empowered by the Disaster Management Act Regulations to issue Directions.&nbsp;
I will therefore issue Directions covering the following areas:



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Movement of cargo (aviation, maritime, road – including cross border).  This will cover measures such as prohibition of crew change and movement of essential cargo across all our modes of transport.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Limiting movement of allowed essential public transport to specific times. </li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Movement of cross-border road transport. </li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Suspension of services rendered by our entities.  </li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Closure of Vehicle Testing Centres and Drivers’ Licence Testing Centres (DLTCs).  </li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Expiry of drivers licences. </li></ul>



We
are encouraged by the positive response to the existing regulations by all
stakeholders.&nbsp; These include sanitization of taxis and surfaces by the
taxi industry and initiatives by e-Hailing providers to assist with
transportation relating to healthcare logistics.&nbsp;



For
more information: Ayanda Allie Paine on 072 566 0827



Issued
by the GCIS on behalf of the Department of Transport 



25 March 2020

How South Africa’s lockdown will impact transport sectors

MEDIA RELEASE



DATE: 25 MARCH 2020 &nbsp;



MINISTER PATEL ANNOUNCES ESSENTIAL SERVICE
APPLICATION PORTAL



The Minister of Trade and Industry, Mr Ebrahim
Patel has announced that all businesses that will be allowed to provide
essential services are required to seek approval from the Department of Trade,
Industry and Competition (the dtic) &nbsp;in order for them to trade during the
period of the lockdown in terms of the regulations published today by the
Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Ms Nkosazana
Dlamini-Zuma in Regulation Gazette No. 11062



Such businesses are required to apply to the
Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) Bizportal website at <a href="http://www.bizportal.gov.za">www.bizportal.gov.za</a> and obtain a
certificate from the Commission that allows them to continue trading. The
Bizportal website will contain a menu icon listed as “Essential Service
Businesses” through which an application can be made to the CIPC.



The application will be a simple declaration
requiring minimal registration details, type of business/trade involved in, what
trading name if any is used an d whether it meets the requirements contained in
the essential services list, the contact details of the person applying as well
as the number of employees that will be working during the lockdown period.



The CIPC registry will then pre-populate the
remaining company information and email a certificate stating that the business
is allowed to remain trading.



The certificate can then be used as evidence
to authorities requiring same that indeed the business has been given
government permission to trade and that its employees are able to have
unrestricted movement ONLY in the course of that trade.



It should be stressed and noted that if you
make a false application to the CIPC, and are indeed not an essential service as
per the government regulations, such will be taken as a fraudulent application
and will render yourself as applicant liable to criminal prosecution and
sanction.



This service will be available tomorrow
morning 26 March 2020 at the start of business trading hours.



Enquiries:



Sidwell Medupe-Departmental Spokesperson



Tel: (012) 394 1650



Mobile: 079 492 1774



E-mail: <a href="mailto:MSMedupe@thedti.gov.za">MSMedupe@thedti.gov.za</a>



Issued by: The Department of Trade and
Industry



Follow us on Twitter: @the_dti



For more coverage on COVID-19 visit: <a href="https://www.cnbcafrica.com/covid-19/">https://www.cnbcafrica.com/covid-19/</a>

How to register as an essential business during South Africa’s lockdown

The following is a media statement on behalf of South Africa&#8217;s Department of Mineral Resources and Energy:



REMARKS BY MINISTER
OF MINERAL RESOURCES AND ENERGY, MR GWEDE MANTASHE UNPACKING MINERAL AND ENERGY
INDUSTRIES’ RESPONSE IN PREPARATION FOR A NATIONWIDE LOCKDOWN, 25 MARCH 2020



The Department of Mineral
Resources and Energy yesterday met key stakeholders in the mining and energy
industries to consolidate plans to deal with the spread of Covid-19. This is in
support of the decisive action by the President of the Republic, HE Cyril
Ramaphosa, to institute a nationwide lockdown from 23:59pm on Thursday 26th
March 2020. 



Working together with the South
African Petroleum Industry Association, the Minerals Council SA and in
consultation with labour unions, we have developed a framework through which
these industries will implement the envisaged directives. 



This is being done in order to
safeguard the lives of people, while ensuring that the limited economic
activity which will be undertaken during this period is supported. 



In all our undertakings, we are
considering the health, security as well as socio-economic impact of COVID-19
on these industries. The industries will be required to prioritise the health
and safety of employees, suppliers, contractors and other relevant personnel. 



While demand is expected to
decline in the period ahead, as a result of restrictions on economic activity,
security of energy supply remains critical. The supply of fuel to the relevant
critical and essential services, as well as the supply of coal to Eskom for
electricity supply and liquid fuels production, are critical during this
period. 



We are mindful that in some
mining operations and processing plants a complete shutdown will not be
feasible, as a restart from scratch may be too costly. This would negatively
affect security of supply, and therefore the economy as a whole. 



We are adopting a risk-based
approach, with worst-case scenario planning, and all companies are required to
ensure that their business continuity plans are fit for purpose.



Broadly, the following are
measures being proposed for implementation:



MINING



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Mining operations will be scaled down significantly, particularly deep level mining, which is labour intensive.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Essential services supporting the sector, including security and related infrastructure, maintenance, water pumping, refrigeration and ventilation will continue. </li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Mines supplying coal to Eskom will remain in operation, albeit at reduced production levels. </li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>For exports, each case will be evaluated on its merits.  </li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Services being rendered to communities, such as the supply of water, will continue.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Production in the gold, chrome, manganese and other sectors will be scaled down; while the processing of surface material in the PGMs sector will continue for the production of – among others medical products. This will allow smelters, which cannot be switched on and off abruptly, to remain operational.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>In order to contain the spread of COVID-19, travel will be restricted, in line with regulations to be outlined by the Minister of COGTA.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The Minerals Council has committed to avail its health infrastructure &#8211; facilities and staff – during the lockdown, to support Government efforts. </li></ul>



ENERGY



The following activities are
among those which will be considered an essential service:



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The production and distribution of petroleum products, including fuel, paraffin and liquefied petroleum gas. This entails shipping, manufacturing, terminals, distribution and retail.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>In the case of petroleum products, imports will be scaled back for the duration of the lockdown, as there will be excess capacity</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Regulatory oversight on nuclear facilities, as well as nuclear safeguard inspections.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Production and supply of nuclear medicines and chemicals used at refineries.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The Safari-1 research reactor and support technical services.</li></ul>



Engagements are ongoing between
the sectors, the relevant government departments and state-owned entities. We
will continue to provide updates as the situation unfolds.



Thank you.



Issued
by Government Communication (GCIS) on behalf of the Department of Mineral
Resources and Energy 



25 March 2020



For more coverage on COVID-19 visit: <a href="https://www.cnbcafrica.com/covid-19/">https://www.cnbcafrica.com/covid-19/</a>

Mining to be scaled down during South Africa’s 21-day lockdown

JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) &#8211; South African power utility Eskom said on Wednesday that coal stocks at its power stations were healthy, with at least 20 days of supplies at all stations, before a nationwide lockdown over the coronavirus outbreak starting at midnight on Thursday. 



Eskom said all its activities were considered “essential services” under labour law and that it would apply for an exemption from the 21-day lockdown for critical staff. It has asked coal miners, coal transporters and freight company Transnet to continue coal supply operations during the lockdown. 



(Reporting by Alexander Winning; Editing by Olivia Kumwenda-Mtambo)



This article was first published on Reuters Africa <a href="https://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFKBN21C16B-OZABS">https://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFKBN21C16B-OZABS</a> and is republished with its permission.

Eskom says coal stocks healthy ahead of South Africa’s lockdown

MAPUTO (Reuters) &#8211; Militant group Islamic State has claimed responsibility for an attack in northern Mozambique just south of the site of gas projects worth $60 billion being developed by the likes of Exxon Mobil and Total. 



Insurgents attacked the town of Mocimboa da Praia on Monday, briefly occupying some areas and its army barracks before being pushed out on Tuesday, Mozambique authorities and security analysts said. 



Islamic State claimed the attack through its Amaq news agency, which said dozens of soldiers and police officers had been killed or injured. The government has not provided a figure of dead or injured. 



“Military sources told Amaq that Islamic State fighters attacked five army and police barracks in the town,” the agency said in Tuesday’s report, adding that weapons, ammunition and other equipment had also been seized. 



Government spokesman Filimao Suaze said the retreating attackers had left a “trail of destruction and dead bodies”, and that security had been beefed up in the area. 



While Islamic State has claimed a spate of recent attacks in the northernmost province of Cabo Delgado, home to the gas developments following one of the biggest gas finds in a decade off its coast, Tuesday’s claim of responsibility is the first matched by rare official confirmation of an attack. 



The government does not acknowledge such claims, however. 



Mocimboa da Praia, 60 kilometres (37 miles) south of the gas projects, previously served as the main airport for international workers flying into the developments and its port is used for cargo deliveries. 



Exxon and Total did not immediately respond to emailed requests for comment sent outside usual business hours. 



NGOs say the government must do more to protect the mostly poor civilians in the area and step up transparency. 



“This violent escalation in Mocimboa da Praia is the culmination of a tragic failure by the Mozambican government to protect the people in this volatile area,” said Muleya Mwananyanda, rights group Amnesty’s deputy director for east and southern Africa.



“For almost three years, armed groups have been attacking villagers around Cabo Delgado, causing untold human suffering without being held accountable.” 



The organisation said about 350 people have been killed since 2017, but many estimate a much higher figure. More than 900 people have been reported killed, says a non-government body, the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data project. 



(Reporting by Manuel Mucari in Maputo and Emma Rumney in Johannesburg; Additional reporting by Nayera Abdallah in Cairo; Editing by Clarence Fernandez)



This article was first published on Reuters Africa <a href="https://af.reuters.com/article/topNews/idAFKBN21C0TY-OZATP">https://af.reuters.com/article/topNews/idAFKBN21C0TY-OZATP</a> and is republished with its permission.

Islamic State claims Mozambique attack close to gas projects

MINISTRY



&nbsp;SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT&nbsp;



REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA



Private Bag X274, PRETORIA, 0001, the dti Campus, 77
Meintjies Street, Sunnyside PRETORIA Tel: (012) 394 5535/1813&nbsp;



Private Bag X9047, CAPE TOWN, 8000, Tel: (021) 464 2980,
Fax: (021) 461 2480&nbsp;



Media Statement



For Immediate Release&nbsp;



24 March 2020&nbsp;



STATEMENT BY MINISTER NTSHAVHENI ON GOVERNMENT MEASURES
FOR SMMEs IN RESPONSE TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC&nbsp;



The President on the 23rd of March 2020 announced that
there will be a nation-wide lockdown for 21 Days with effect from the 26th of
March 2020, at midnight. The lockdown is enacted in accordance with the
Disaster Management Act. As a result, all shops and businesses will be closed,
with the exception of pharmacies, laboratories, banks, essential financial and
payment services, supermarkets, petrol stations and healthcare providers.&nbsp;



The impact of COVID-19 on SMMEs has been prevalent long
before the announcement of the State of National Disaster by the President, and
will worsen owing to the lockdown which was announced in effort to curb the
spread of the virus. SMMEs and the Informal Sector will be affected on a
multifront, and the government continues to announce multiple interventions to
alleviate the economic impact of COVID-19 against SMMEs and the Informal
Sector.&nbsp;



Minister Ntshavheni would like to extend a word of
appreciation to all donors who have committed to assist SMMEs during this
period, with a special note of gratitude to the Rupert and Oppenheimer families
for their commitment of R1 billion each. The monies are intended provide relief
to SMMEs and their employees that are affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;



The Department of Small Business Development has
introduced three intervention measures to support SMMEs affected by the
COVID-19 pandemic. These are the Business Growth and Resilience Facility, SMME
Relief Finance Scheme and Sefa-Debt Restructuring Facility.&nbsp;



The Business Growth and Resilience Facility is targeted
at SMMEs who locally manufacture or supply hygiene and medical products that
are in demand in order to curb and manage the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
These are products such as sanitizers, detergents and tissue paper. This
facility will offer working capital, stock, bridging finance, order finance and
equipment finance. The funding amount will be based on the funding needs of the
actual business.



The SMME Relief Finance Facility will provide soft-loan
funding for existing businesses in distress due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The
relief will be for a period of 6 months, from 01 April 2020. In an instance
where SMMEs will require assistance for longer than 6 months, the term may be
extended dependent on their needs. Separate and tailor-made Facilities are
being finalized for the Informal Sector, Spaza Shops and the Self-Employed.
These will be announced on Friday, 27 March 2020.



Key to the qualifying criteria for the Business Growth
and Resilience Facility and the SMME Relief Finance Scheme is that the entities
must be 100% South African owned, 70% of their employees must be South African,
and the entities must be registered and be compliant with SARS. In the instance
that an SMME is not compliant, they will be assisted with the compliance
process before their applications can be considered.&nbsp;



The Sefa-Debt Restructuring Facility is geared towards
sefa-funded SMMEs that are negatively affected by the pandemic. A payment
moratorium/ holiday will be given to the qualifying SMMEs for a period of a
maximum of 6 months, in efforts to reduce the installment burden of loan
obligations on the affected SMMEs. These SMMEs will be required to illustrate
the direct linkage of their business distress to the pandemic.&nbsp;



The SMME South Africa platform (<a href="http://www.smmesa.gov.za">www.smmesa.gov.za</a>) was created in
partnership with Telkom SA, and will serve as a gateway for SMMEs to apply for
both financial and non-financial support, access information about business
opportunities and market access support during the pandemic, and beyond.&nbsp;



The Department would like to caution members of the
public against the consumption and circulation of false information not
originating from the Department’s official communication channels.&nbsp;



//End …&nbsp;



Issued by the Ministry of Small Business Development

These are the relief measures being offered to South Africa’s small businesses during lockdown

A 21-day national lockdown has been declared.&nbsp;&nbsp; 



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The lockdown will begin on the evening of Thursday 26 March 2020 at 23:59.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The lockdown will remain in force for 21 days.</li><li>All South Africans will have to stay at home until midnight on Thursday 16 April 2020.</li><li>The categories of people exempted from this lockdown are as follows:o Health workers in the public and private sector,</li><li>Emergency personnel,</li><li>Security services – such as the police, traffic officers, military medical personnel, soldiers and,</li><li>Other persons necessary for our response to the pandemic. </li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>It will also include those involved in the production, distribution and supply of food and basic goods, essential banking services, the maintenance of power, water and telecommunications services, laboratory services, and the provision of medical and hygiene products.&nbsp; </li></ul>



Will I be able to leave my house? 



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>There is no need for panic, as lockdown does not mean a shutdown.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>People will still be allowed to get to shops and access essential goods and services but in small numbers.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>It is up to all of us to minimise our movement.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Only undertake essential trips outside your home such as to get food, seek medical care or access supplies.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>When leaving your home try and go out alone, plan your trip and get in and out of your destination as quickly as possible.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Practice hygiene when you go out, wash your hands when leaving home, do so again at your destination and before you depart for home.&nbsp; </li></ul>



What about homeless people and those who cannot self-quarantine? 



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Temporary shelters that meet the necessary hygiene standards will be identified for homeless people.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Sites are also being identified for quarantine and self-isolation for people who cannot self-isolate at home. </li></ul>



We are all in this together&nbsp; 



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>All sectors and citizens are working well together to fight the Coronavirus and we must continue to do so.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Aggressive containment measures are essential to ensure that the virus does not spread any further.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Please continue to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>We call on everyone to cooperate with government and other sectors to implement the measures.</li></ul>



What services will remain open? 



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Most shops and businesses will be closed.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The police, metro police, military and emergency services will continue to operate.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Health care services such as hospitals, clinics, doctors, pharmacies and laboratories will remain open.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Banks and essential financial and payment services, including the JSE will remain open.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Supermarkets will remain open so that citizens can continue to care for themselves and their families.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Petrol stations will remain open.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Companies that are essential to the production and transportation of food, basic goods and medical supplies will remain open. </li></ul>



We are expanding efforts to contain the virus. 



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>This nationwide lockdown will be accompanied by a public health management programme which will significantly increase screening, testing, contact tracing and medical management.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Community health teams will focus on expanding screening and testing where people live, focusing first on high density and high-risk areas.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>South African citizens and residents arriving from high-risk countries will automatically be placed under quarantine for 14 days.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Non-South Africans arriving on flights from high-risk countries will be turned back.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>International flights to Lanseria Airport will be temporarily suspended.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>International travellers who arrived in South Africa after 9 March 2020 from high-risk countries will be confined to their hotels until they have completed a 14-day period of quarantine. </li></ul>



A number of economic interventions are being put in place. 



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>We have set up a Solidarity Fund, which South African businesses, organisations and individuals, and members of the international community, can contribute to.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The Fund will focus efforts to combat the spread of the virus, help us to track the spread, care for those who are ill and support those whose lives are disrupted.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The Fund has a website – www.solidarityfund.co.za – and contributions can be deposited via the fund.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The Fund will be administered by a reputable team of people, drawn from financial institutions, accounting firms and government.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>To get things moving, government is providing seed capital of R150 million and the private sector has already pledged to support this fund with financial contributions.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>We will be spending money to save lives and to support the economy.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>We must applaud the commitment made in this time of crisis by the Rupert and Oppenheimer families of R1 billion each to assist small businesses and their employees affected by the coronavirus pandemic. </li></ul>



We are assisting businesses.



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>We will be assisting businesses in the informal sector such as spaza shops.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Registration is now open, on www.smmesa.gov.za, for small and medium-sized businesses that require help during the coronavirus crisis.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The department of Small Business Development has a debt-relief fund for small businesses.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Small businesses affected by the outbreak of the coronavirus will be required to produce proof of negative impact as a result of COVID-19.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>We will further be assisting small businesses to avert job losses through the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA).</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Government has urged malls and retailers to consider rent and payment holidays to tenants negatively affected by the lockdown. </li></ul>



There is no need to stockpile food.&nbsp; 



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Government calls on everyone in the country to avoid panic buying.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>We are aware that many South Africans are worried about the impact of the coronavirus on essential supplies and food in the country.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>As government, we are doing everything we can to ensure that we have enough food and all essentials we need.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Government has had discussions with manufacturers and distributors of basic necessities, who have indicated that there will be a continuous supply of these goods.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Let us be considerate and responsible to ensure that we have enough for everyone especially the most vulnerable in our society.&nbsp; </li></ul>



Our social safety net remains in place. 



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>All grants will continue to be paid.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>To alleviate congestion at payment points, old age pensions and disability grants will be available for collection from 30 and 31 March 2020, while other categories of grants will be available for collection from 01 April 2020.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>All channels for access will remain open, including ATMs, retail point of sale devices, Post Offices and cash pay points. </li></ul>



Let us stand and face this together. 



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The actions we are taking will challenge us as a nation.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>But we are convinced that the cost of not acting now would be far greater.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>In the days, weeks and months ahead our resolve, our resourcefulness and our unity as a nation will be tested as never before.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Let us all play our part and ensure that we emerge stronger and more united.&nbsp; </li></ul>



You are not alone! 



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>It is important that you stay connected via the phone, social media or email.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Maintain your networks and speak to friends or family regularly.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Keep doing enjoyable and relaxing activities such as reading, pc, board or card games, social networking or watching television.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Stay informed by getting the facts, not rumours or fake news.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Engage children in your care in creative ways; create fun learning activities, play games and try to keep their daily routine going.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Stay active by doing simple exercises within your home or garden.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Or create an exercise plan specifically to suit your environment.</li></ul>

How SA’s lockdown will work

JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) &#8211; South Africa’s number of coronavirus cases has risen to 709, from 554 on Tuesday, Health Minister Zweli Mkhize said on Wednesday. 



“We are now at 709 cases,” he said, speaking on local news channel SABC. 



(Reporting by Emma Rumney; Editing by Kim Coghill)



This article was first published on Reuters Africa <a href="https://af.reuters.com/article/topNews/idAFKBN21C0TO-OZATP">https://af.reuters.com/article/topNews/idAFKBN21C0TO-OZATP</a> and is republished with its permission.

South Africa’s coronavirus cases rise to 709

Following the address made by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa regarding COVID-19 and its impact on the nation, employees and employers are being asked to “self-quarantine” and implement “social distancing”. 



“The COVID-19 pandemic is a societal issue and not just an employer issue. We all share the responsibility and as such, one of the most responsible things employers can do is limit human interaction. Working remotely, especially from home, can be a difficult task for some in at first – especially if one is used to working within a structured office environment,” says ManpowerGroup South Africa’s managing director, Lyndy van den Barselaar. 



ManpowerGroup South Africa offers some specific advice on how to make a success of working remotely:



Create a Work Schedule



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Set a work schedule, create a routine and stick to it. “Yes, we are in a crisis and it’s totally natural to feel panicked and out-of-sorts over all that is going on. Nonetheless it’s key to stick to deliverables and goals,” says van den Barselaar.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Take lunch and coffee breaks to recharge your batteries between tasks. “Sometimes, one can fall into the trap of feeling like you have to over deliver because you are not in the office. Remember to take short breaks in between tasks to avoid burnout and ensure you are able to function optimally,” adds van den Barselaar.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Make use of the online tools available such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom and Skype to schedule video meetings.</li></ul>



Have a Set Office Space



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Designate a specific space in your home for your office. “It is important to make the distinction between your living and working space, in order to avoid the trap of an ‘always-on’ lifestyle. Keep your personal relaxing spaces, like your bedroom and living room, separate from your workspace,” says van den Barselaar.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Choose a space where you will have minimal interruptions. Don’t underestimate the distractions from children, pets, TV and household chores.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Store all work-related files, reference materials and supplies in that space. Better yet, go paperless, by scanning hard copies of documents using tools such as Dropbox, Evernote, Google Drive or Microsoft One Drive.</li></ul>



Get Organised



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Every Monday morning, create a list of all the activities you have to accomplish for the upcoming week.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>At the end of each workday, create a to-do list of all the tasks you have to complete the next day, starting with the most to the least important.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Create a filing system to help you be your most productive self.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Organise your office space in a manner that facilitates your best work.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Have the items you use most frequently within reach.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Schedule regular check-in meetings with your manager and team to ensure you are staying on top of your actions.</li></ul>



Have the Right Equipment



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Invest in equipment that will enable you to do your job effectively and efficiently. “If you have video meetings with your manager each week, for example, make sure that your computer has the right camera, speed and memory for this,” says van den Barselaar.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Since you will be doing most of your work on the computer, and transferring work via the Internet, make sure that you have reliable Internet and a safe connection. “Make use of a VPN if possible, to ensure the safety of your documents and information,” van den Barselaar suggests.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Have a reliable back-up system. </li></ul>



Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Even though you are encouraged not to attend the gym, take time to exercise regularly, be it at home or going for a walk outside. “This can seem like a task that is separate from your work life, but keeping yourself active and healthy can assist in managing stress and creating a positive work life balance,” says van den Barselaar</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Practice regular handwashing with soap and water and in the instance that you should need to leave your home, always have sanitiser within reach.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Implement social distancing but nothing should stop you from arranging a video call with friends or family after work to keep the loneliness at bay. </li></ul>



“We are entering uncharted territory, however being productive and delivering results should continue to be a priority,” concludes van den Barselaar.

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