​Qaqambile Mdledle​
President Cyril Ramaphosa on Sunday, 30 May 2021, announced that the country would move to lockdown alert level 2 with immediate effect due to a significant increase in positive COVID-19 cases in the country.
The president's address to the nation follows meetings in recent days of the National Coronavirus Command Council, the President's Coordinating Council and Cabinet.
President Ramaphosa said they had seen a sustained increase over the last four weeks with an average of 3,745 daily new infections.
"This was an increase of 31% on the previous week, and an increase of 66% on the week before that, "Ramaphosa said.
The President extended the night-time curfew and reduced the permissible size of public gatherings to contain the spread of the COVID-19.
The curfew will now run from 11 pm to 4 am, one hour longer than before. A maximum of 100 people will be allowed at indoor gatherings and 250 at outdoor events. A widely-anticipated tightening of curbs on alcohol sales didn't materialise.
Funerals remain restricted to 100 people, while after-funeral gatherings remain prohibited.  Night vigils and 'after-tears' gatherings are not allowed.
President said they do not yet know how severe this third wave will be or how long it will last.
"It is important that we strictly observe all the health protocols by wearing a mask, keeping our distance from others and ensuring proper ventilation. Wherever possible, we should avid gatherings where possible," he added.