South Africa closes borders due to rise of Covid-19 cases

South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced the closure of its land borders to most travelers until 15 February, in an effort to slow the spread of coronavirus.

While addressing via television on Monday night, President Ramaphosa said the pandemic in South Africa is currently at its most devastating, with infection numbers far exceeding the peak experienced in the first wave.

He said there have been nearly 190,000 reported infections since New Year, and there are currently more than 15,000 people in the hospital with Covid-19.

The province of KwaZulu Natal has seen the most cases per head of population in recent weeks, but Mr Ramaphosa said infection numbers in Gauteng are growing exponentially and are expected to increase further as travelers return from their holidays.

Many restrictions put in place at the end of December will be extended.