​Kwanele Ximba
With the country officially on Alert Level 1 of the national lockdown, it is crucial for South Africans to familiarise themselves with some of the restrictions that come with the new Level. 
The relaxation of restrictions on gatherings under Alert Level 1 means there are more opportunities for interaction and an increased risk of spreading COVID-19 from person to person. The onus to protest ourselves and those around us now rests with each of us more than ever before.
Although gatherings are now permitted, they are restricted to 50 per cent of the venue capacity. This is however subject to a maximum of 250 people for indoor gatherings and 500 people for outdoor gatherings. 
People attending any social gathering are advised to always wear a mask, adhere to the establishment's health and safety protocols and maintain a distance of at least one and a half meter from each other. 
Theatres, casinos hotels, lodges, bed and breakfasts, timeshare facilities, resorts and guest houses are limited to 50 percent of the capacity of the venue. 
Gatherings at sports grounds and fields; beaches and public parks; and museums, galleries, libraries and archives are allowed, subject to the strict adherence to health protocols and physical distancing measures. Sporting activities, both professional and non-professional, by recognised sporting bodies, are allowed. Only the required number of players, match officials, support staff and medical crew required for the sport match, radio and television crew and security personnel are allowed at the venue.