President Cyril Ramaphosa Announces Closure Of 20 Border Posts

Last night President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the closure of SA land borders as a way to curb the exposure and transmission of COVID-19 at the border points and into South Africa.

In a detailed speech the president said; ” One of the challenges that we have as the festive season draws to a close is the huge congestion at many of our land border posts.
 
This has exposed many people to infection as they wait to be processed and it has been difficult to ensure that the health requirements for entry into South Africa are met, with many people arriving without proof of COVID-19 tests.
 
To reduce congestion and the high risk of transmission, Cabinet has decided that the 20 land ports of entry that are currently open will be closed until the 15th of February for general entry and departure.
 
These include the six busiest border posts, which are Beitbridge, Lebombo, Maseru Bridge, Oshoek, Ficksburg and Kopfontein.
 
People will be however still be allowed to enter or depart the country for: 
 
–           the transportation of fuel, cargo and goods,
–           emergency medical attention for a life-threatening condition,
–           the return of South African nationals, permanent residents or persons with other valid visas,
–           diplomats,
–           the departure of foreign nationals,
–           daily commuters from neighbouring countries who attend school in South Africa.
 
The full list of exemptions will be contained in the regulations.”