According to President Ramaphosa’s announcement on Monday, South Africa’s supply chains will be protected throughout the country’s 21-day COVID-19 lockdown, meaning there’s no need for citizens to panic buy or stockpile items.
He gave the assurance at the Union Buildings on Monday night while giving details around the lockdown. The lockdown comes into effect from the stroke of midnight on Thursday.
The government is taking drastic measures in a bid to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the country where there are now 554 cases.
South Africans have been ordered to stay at home from midnight on Thursday but there will be access to basic goods throughout the lockdown.
The president said people would be able to leave their homes to get supplies, under strictly controlled circumstances. Manufacturing, production, and supply of basic goods will not be affected.
“The supply of goods remains continuous and intact and there is no need for stockpiling of any items,” he said.
Regulations have also been put in place to prevent unreasonable price hikes and panic buying.
