Charles Molele
President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced that at least three South Africans have died from COVID-19 while a total of 1 326 cases of coronavirus were reported thus far.
In a live address to the nation on Monday night, Ramaphosa said government intended to step up its fight against the virus by rolling out a screening, testing, tracing and medical management programme on a huge scale.
“We are now entering a new phase in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Ramaphosa.
“Around 10,000 field workers will be visiting homes in villages, towns and cities to screen residents for COVID-19 symptoms. People with symptoms will be referred to local clinics or mobile clinics for testing. People who are infected with coronavirus, but who have no or moderate symptoms will remain in isolation at home or at a facility provided by government and those with severe symptoms will be transferred to hospitals.”
He thanked several businesses and other high-net-worth individuals who have made financial contributions to help fight the pandemic.
“In addition to the financial pledges announced last week we welcome the commitment by the Motsepe Foundation of R1 billion and by Naspers of R1.5 billion to the coronavirus response,” said Ramaphosa.
“We are also extremely grateful to Mr Jack Ma, the founder of the China-based company Alibaba, who has donated vital medical supplies to South Africa and other countries across Africa.”
